We asked how the NHS can boost productivity: here’s what we heard (The Health Foundation, 11 May 2026)

Summary

Productivity is a polarising term in the NHS. In a stretched system, it carries unwelcome connotations of being asked to do more work with the same – or fewer – resources. It is unsurprising, then, that the productivity ‘agenda’ is viewed with caution, even resentment; as something imposed on the service rather than shaped by those who deliver and use it. 

This blog presents an overview of the results of a recent public call for evidence from The Health Foundation as part of the NHS Productivity Commission, in which a wide range of stakeholders were invited to share their insights, ideas and expertise on the challenge of productivity in the NHS in England and how it could be tackled. 

Key insights gained covered the following areas:

1. Measuring productivity and defining value: How productivity is measured was considered of key importance as well as defining a shared system-wide priority for the health service.
2. Ideas for change from the frontline: Ideas were presented for how productivity could be owned and improved from the frontline, to enhance job quality and retention.
3. System and organisational capabilities: Many respondents spoke about the cultural changes and system capabilities needed for a more productive NHS. 

The next steps are proposed in which the insights gained from this call for evidence, along with wider research and stakeholder engagement will be drawn upon to develop a series of policy options papers and an overarching roadmap.