to try io hit-list AMID grim warings of a new 'flu epidemic that could put huge strains on hospital services, health union CORSE is waring that the Tory government are planning drastic cuts to London's NHS.
A new report Under Pressure, researched for COHSE by London Health Emergency shows that despte the closure of almost 7,000 (22%) of London's acute hospital beds between 1982-89, ministers are looking to close anther 2,000 beds or more, including at mast one teaching hospital, ds part of their now 'market' reforms.
Knowing that to annonce such cuts now could spell disaster in the general election, Heath Secretary Willam Waldegrave has staved off the hour of decision by launching "Inquiry into the capital's hospital service, to be headed by Sir Bernard Tominson. This wil amount to itte more than drawing up a 'hit list" for instant closure if the Tones are re-electoo, and wil not report until after the election is The COHSE report challenges the RSI: view argued by ministers and by many heath chiefs and academics. ina Lonen *over- bedded" and overresourced. date figures to show that the numbers of acute patients had risen by 1990-91 to almost 50% above the planned level for risen by over 40% since 1982.
Far from being over-resourced, London has faced a decline in resources in relation to inflation and demand budget has falen over £600 milion below the level roquired to match 1982 sponding.
Despite the concentration of costy teaching hospitals in London, and the Not only can you get the best in political ideas from other prizes in our revolutionary fundraising 300 club scheme. For just £5 a month - less than the price of a pint of beer a week (if you live in London) - you get the chance to win E50 in our monthly draw. In addition Socialist Outlook to continue making life difficult for the capitalists and the New Realist right-wing.
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Facing new closures? London's nurses costs of London weighting, health spending per head in the South East is and almost 20% below por capita spending in Scotland. The COHSE report, submitted as evidence to the Tomlinson inquiry, opchaotic market reforms. It calls instead for increased rescufces and for a new strategic planning body - a London Regional Heath Authority - to take long-term responsibility for health care in the capital. Socialist Outlook, you can also win exciting cash and you can bask in the knowledge that you have helped Please include me in the Socialist Outlook 300 club ...(in words) .(infigures) ...... (month) Please complete and return to Socialist Outlook, PO Box No. 14 Jan. 18, 1992 Page 15
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