From Pledges to Prevention

This week as the general election campaign hits full swing, and The Power Test is focused once again on one of the top issues for the voting public.

The NHS.

Health is a major pledge for both parties, and in the last 24 hours Labour have pushed ahead on its core message of bringing down waiting lists - with a major offensive from Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Keir Starmer himself.

But what will it really take to deliver on the pledge in government?

Is Labour ready and prepared with a plan to make a difference, and what beyond the pledge? What’s the future of the health service and what is required from government to really see progress?

Sam and Ayesha are joined by Sarah Woolnough, the Chief Executive of The King's Fund - an independent think tank working to improve health and care across England - and Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the NHS Confederation - the major membership organisation that brings together, supports and speaks for the whole healthcare system in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Through their discussion, they touch on how Labour needs to balance quick wins on waiting lists - including trying to settle industrial disputes - with a long-term refocus of health policy towards prevention.

While an early election may have robbed Labour of additional time to get some of its preparation right - where does the party stand on one of the biggest challenges it will inherit from the Conservatives?

The episode continues our election specials on Labour’s pledges and plan - but does its policies meet the real test of power in truly changing the country for the better?

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