As we look back on 75 years of the NHS, the chief executive of Ipswich and Colchester hospitals has given thanks for the “incredible institution”, and reflected on how healthcare has changed since the pandemic. 

In 2023, few of us can remember a time before the National Health Service. Since it was created in 1948, countless lives have been saved by the life-changing treatment it delivers.  

Nick Hulme is the chief executive of East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which runs both Ipswich Hospital and Colchester Hospital. 

He said: “The NHS is an incredible institution which offers hope, help and support to millions of people day in and day out.  

“Here at ESNEFT our team of 12,000 staff work extremely hard to make sure the people of East Suffolk and North Essex are given the best care when they need it.” 

Ipswich Star: The NHS created in 1948. It was the brainchild of the Welsh politician, Aneurin Nye Bevan. Image.The NHS created in 1948. It was the brainchild of the Welsh politician, Aneurin Nye Bevan. Image. (Image: Newsquest)

He also reflected on how healthcare has changed since 1948. 

“The COVID-19 pandemic changed the NHS immeasurably, but the nature of medicine and the type of care people need has also changed since the NHS began 75 years ago,” he said.  

“Thanks to the huge efforts of all our staff including research teams and specialist departments, patients now have access to some of the most up to date and state of the art care that is available. 

“We know that due to the COVID pandemic and other pressures such as high demand over winter and industrial action mean that sometimes patients are waiting too long to access that care, but we are constantly reviewing the way that we work and are committed to seeing all our patients as quickly as possible. To reduce the backlog, we have increased our capacity and have been running additional clinics. 

“As we look to the future of the NHS and see new research and technology providing change at lightning pace, the one thing that will never change at ESNEFT is that safe and effective patient care will always be our top priority.” 

On Wednesday, July 5, Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals will be lit up in blue, and the NHS 75 flags will be flying proudly.