The UK’s NHS is expected to end the financial year with a GBP 1.75 billion surplus, according to figures from the Department of Health.
The figure for 2008/09 is a forecast based on data from the first three months of the financial year.
The Government said the surplus – predicted to be about 2% of the overall NHS budget – was in line with expectations and would “stay within the NHS to improve patient care”.
The gross deficit of the NHS is predicted to be GBP 45 million at the end of the year, down from an actual GBP 125 million at the end of 2007/08.
David Flory, director general of NHS finance, performance and operations, said: “This is an excellent start to the year for the NHS.
“A strong financial position backed by good progress on delivery will continue to ensure high quality services for patients.”
The report also said the NHS was on track to meet its end-of-year target of no patient having to wait longer than 18 weeks from GP referral to treatment.
Copyright PA Business 2008
