What is the NHS 10-Year Health Plan?
I have been asked this question several times, so here is a guide to The NHS 10-Year Health Plan — officially called “Fit for the Future: 10 Year Health Plan for England” — is a major policy from the UK government, published in July 2025. It outlines how the NHS (National Health Service) will improve over the next decade to make sure everyone in England can get good, free healthcare when they need it.
What are the three biggest changes in the plan?
1. From Hospital to Community
More care will take place in your neighbourhood or even at home, rather than in large hospitals.
New services called Neighbourhood Health Centres (NHCs) will open in every area, offering access to a doctor or nurse for most issues—not just emergencies.
2. From Analogue to Digital
The NHS will use more digital technology. For example, you’ll be able to book appointments, view your health records, or speak to doctors online or via an app—much like you’d order food or shop online.
This shift will help make services easier to use and will reduce paperwork for both patients and NHS staff.
3. From Sickness to Prevention
The NHS will focus more on stopping illness before it starts. That means more check-ups, personalised health advice, and help with staying active, eating well, and managing your health.
There will be extra campaigns and early detection checks for cancer, diabetes, and mental health, helping people get support sooner.
What else does the plan promise?
-
New “one-stop shop” health centres open at least 12 hours a day, 6 days a week
-
Better child dental care and more NHS dentists
-
Faster emergency care so patients aren’t treated in corridors
-
New mental health emergency departments across the country
-
An extra £29 billion invested over 10 years in new services and digital tools
-
Easier appointment booking and feedback options
-
More choice and control for patients
Was the public involved in making this plan?
Yes. Over 250,000 people—including NHS staff, patients, and members of the public—helped shape this plan by taking part in Change NHS, the largest NHS consultation in history.
Is the NHS 10-Year Health Plan the law?
Yes. This is an official government plan, and all NHS providers in England must follow it. It sets out the future direction of care while staying true to the NHS founding principles:
-
Care must be free at the point of use
-
The NHS must remain open to everyone
Where can I check the official plan?
You can find the full plan and summary on the GOV.UK website, titled:
“Fit for the Future: 10 Year Health Plan for England”
The document is a public legal strategy with implementation details for NHS England.
References
In short
The NHS 10-Year Health Plan will change how people in England get care. It’s about more help close to home, easier access to services online, and catching problems early.
The plan is backed by public voices, legal direction, and billions in investment—shaping the NHS to be fit for the future.
By Aneeta Prem MBE