Healthcare

In a guest blog for The King's Fund, Bobby Duffy explores public expectations of the NHS and other public services.

The January 2018 Ipsos Issues Index records a rise in concern about the NHS.

Drug pricing has long been a key reputational issue for the pharmaceutical industry in the eyes of consumers. In light of recent media coverage of this issue, it is unlikely that perceptions are going to shift any time soon. However, many senior stakeholder groups are positive about the future of Pharmaceuticals.

The 2017 Ipsos Veracity Index reveals the esteem the British public holds for a variety of professions, with some fresh additions in the form of weather forecasters and professional footballers.

As we age, our immune system generally declines in reliability and efficiency, resulting in an increased susceptibility to infectious diseases[1]. As such, the 65 years and over age-group is also at increased risk for pneumococcal disease[2].

It is expected that every year across Europe alone, there are three million cases of pneumonia, for which around one million people are hospitalised[1]. Community-acquired pneumonia is also one of Europe’s most frequent causes of death due to infection.[1]

No matter how you slice it, pharmaceutical companies across the industry are scrambling to be perceived as putting the patient first. But who is making good on this? What more needs to be done?

Our new survey on trust in professions conducted among over 2,600 secondary school age children finds that doctors are the most trusted profession.

An Ipsos survey for The King’s Fund shows that support for the NHS and its founding principles is as strong as ever.