A2.5 The origins of the healthcare sector and how this has developed into the healthcare sector we have today

Qualification: T Level Technical Qualification in Health
Unit: Core
Learning outcome: A2: The healthcare sector
Assessment criteria: A2.5 The origins of the healthcare sector and how this has developed into the healthcare sector we have today

• The National Health Service (NHS) began in 1948 which brought free healthcare to all UK citizens
• Before this time, patients were expected to pay for their own treatment, or some services may have been provided by the local authority or religious institutions
• It was the World’s first healthcare system that was free at the point of use
• Over time, more services have been provided by the NHS and the number of staff employed has risen exponentially – consequently, the cost of the system (which is paid by taxpayers) has risen
• Private healthcare, in which patients pay for the services directly or via insurance, has also risen over this time
• Third-sector organisations, such as charities and volunteer groups, have risen in number to offer services and support that may not be covered by the NHS