Is it time for a new National Beds Inquiry, or a national policy decision?

Is it time for a new National Beds Inquiry, or a national policy decision? Travel back in time with me. It’s February 2000. There is a growing sense that reductions in hospital bed numbers have gone too far. The demand for health care is growing and waiting lists are on the rise. NHS services are changing too. There is a new hospital building programme. And technology is changing how services are delivered, with NHS Direct handling more health inquiries over the phone and internet (and a dedicated interactive channel on TV…). The King's Fund