Investigating Healthcare: Exploring societal and systematic challenges in the UK

The UK healthcare system faces many health, economic and societal challenges currently—from increases in long term health conditions, to an underfunded and understaffed service with scattered patient pathways. The demands on the National Health Service have changed dramatically over the years, from initially being a system to deal with a small number of diseases and implications—such as tuberculosis and midwifery services, to a network of interlinking systems, dealing with the most complex of healthcare challenges. 

The purpose of this paper is to outline some of the main healthcare and societal challenges facing the UK healthcare systems presently. If the NHS is to sustain itself, reflection on the evolution to its current state is essential. It seems we are repeating patterns of behaviours seen throughout the history of health and healthcare, and if we are to maintain and progress, it will be necessary to look inwards. Analysing such challenges, will allow for a greater understanding of the necessary areas for improvement; whilst identifying potential design and innovation solutions that can have an impact on improving the health of the nation, in support of sustaining such a complex system that is the National Heath Service.