RCS England responds to The Times Health Commission report

Mr Tim Mitchell, President of the Royal College of Surgeons of England welcomes The Times Health Commission report:

"We are pleased to see this thorough review from the Times Health Commission. We support any evidence-based initiatives which will bring down long waiting times for patients, providing they are delivered in a way which does not cause burnout for the workforce. 

"Reform of the NHS is needed but we can't duck debates on funding. Ultimately the NHS needs more staff, more operating theatres, and more beds - all of which cost money and we need all political parties to put forward long-term funding plans which are linked to reform and reduced waiting times for patients.”

Notes to editors:

1.  RCS England provides world-class education, assessment and development to 30,000 surgeons, dental professionals and members of the wider surgical and dental care teams, at all stages of their careers. Our vision is to see excellent surgical care for everyone. We do this by setting professional standards, facilitating research and championing the best outcomes for patients.

2.  For more information, please contact the Press Office: Telephone: 020 7869 6053/6054/6047; Email: pressoffice@rcseng.ac.uk; Out-of-hours media enquiries: 0207 869 6056.