Quality improvement and anaesthesia: a trainee perspective

On the 5th of July 1948 Aneurin Bevan imbued the National Health Service (NHS) with its founding principles of universality, equity and quality. Some 65 years later and in light of the recent Francis inquiry it would appear that his vision is far from reality.

During this time, societal transition from post-war to consumerism culminated in the recent global financial crises dictating change in all industries and organisations. If the NHS and its founding principles are to prevail then a fundamental change in direction and more importantly culture is required. Paramount in this is patient safety and overall quality improvement.