A Ten Year Health Plan for England

The Department of Health and Social Care has released its new 10-Year Health Plan for England, outlining how the NHS will be reshaped over the next decade to improve patient care, reduce waiting times, and address long-standing workforce and service pressures.

Titled Fit for the Future, the plan sets out three central goals:

1. Expanding neighbourhood and at-home care – including more local health centres, increased GP training, and faster access to same-day appointments.
2. Better use of technology and data – through a single digital patient record and a more advanced, user-friendly NHS App to help patients manage appointments, prescriptions, and access advice more easily.
3. Improving public health and prevention – by working with schools, employers, local councils, and charities to tackle key health risks such as smoking, obesity, and alcohol misuse.

The Government says the plan is based on extensive public engagement and aims to make the NHS more responsive, sustainable, and equitable — ensuring everyone can access the care they need regardless of income or location. It also includes commitments to improve hospital care, invest in NHS workforce development, and lead on medical research and innovation.

Download and read the plan here

The RSN welcomes views from our members on what the proposals mean for rural health and care provision in their areas.