In this lecture, Dilnot emphasized the necessity for a long-term, strategic approach to health and social care planning, arguing that the prevailing short-term mindset exacerbates existing challenges. He highlighted the importance of setting clear goals and improving understanding of past outcomes to inform future decisions. Dilnot also discussed the need for better integration of services and a more coordinated effort across different sectors to address the complex issues facing the NHS and social care systems.
The REAL Centre, established during this lecture, aims to provide independent analysis and research to support better long-term decision-making in health and social care. By focusing on evidence-based projections and policy evaluations, the Centre seeks to help policymakers navigate the complexities of an aging population, workforce shortages, and increasing demand for services. Dilnot’s lecture underscored the importance of moving beyond reactive measures and adopting a proactive, informed approach to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the UK’s health and social care systems in the future.