Rugby People Speak on the Future of the NHS

A survey undertaken during September by Rugby Conservatives has shown that the overwhelming majority of Rugby citizens feel that the NHS could operate more efficiently and give more choice to local people. Of those asked 75% felt that the Government should be looking to make efficiency savings in the NHS and over 80% felt that patients should have more choice in where they are treated. The survey was conducted over the phone, on the doorstep and online.

Mark Pawsey, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Rugby spoke about the results of the survey:

"It is no surprise that local people feel so strongly about the National Health Service and that they feel it is time for a change in the way it is managed. Despite the fact that spending on health has almost tripled since 1997, this Government's target driven culture in the NHS has meant there has been a loss of focus on what is important - patient care and satisfaction. David Cameron's message that we will defend and improve the health service is clearly understood by the people of Rugby, as over half of those we spoke to believe that the Conservative Party is committed to the NHS."

Mark continued:

"The strongest feelings during our survey were made about the  choice patient's have in where they are treated. For most people their priority is somewhere they are familiar with and with the least distance to travel. For Rugby people in most cases this means The Hospital of St Cross. As someone who has lived his life in Rugby, I stand 100% behind St Cross and will make it a priority to ensure that it gets the support and resources it needs in order to continue to deliver the best possible quality care and support to the people of Rugby."

Mark concluded:

"It will be absolutely vital for any incoming Government to work quickly to address the issues that are currently affecting the NHS. In this time of economic uncertainty it is more important than ever that the key services in the country get the priority of funding that they need. The Conservative Party recognises this, and is ready to commit the resources to enable the NHS to meet the challenges of the next few years."