Monbiot on NHS reforms

Interesting views on NHS reforms by Monbiot in the Guardian today:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/may/16/cameron-blair-nhs-kitemark

He describes the approach of Cameron (on broader policy) as little different to that of Blair, except in terms of the language used. He appears to suggest that Blair was better at marketing his message. Cameron simply states what he is doing. I broadly agree.

He then goes on to criticise Cameron's attempt to radically change the NHS at one fell swoop. It is my opinion that this approach to strategy has led to Cameron/ Lansley digging a bigger hole than they needed to into which they could be pushed. The message here is to dig a small hole first, then get in the hole and dig another small one. You have less distance to fall then. None of this would have mattered if they had not mis-calculated the feasibility of their proposed reforms and the level of support. Interestingly, dentists appear to prefer to move to a National Commissioning Board, part of Lansley's plans, but at the same time have limited confidence in Lansley as health minister. My interpretation of this is that while many dentists are not happy with their PCT and therefore would like to see something else (National Commissioning)they still see the pit-falls in health policy generally. And, of course,the existence of many aspects of the CQC/HTM0105 against a back-drop of a stated government intention to cut red tape campaign just looks patently ridiculous, and makes one wonder how integrated Lansley's plans are with those of the rest of Government.

The rest of Monbiot's article is on the link. It is worth reading whether you agree with it or not.