Prime Minister Tony Blair has launched a reform programme for the NHS in England that he believes will once again make it “the healthcare system the world most envies.”

The plan proposes changes to consultants' and GPs' contracts; promises more doctors and nurses; sets targets for waiting times for treatment; recommends a concordat between the NHS and the private sector; and aims to reduce inequalities.

Tony Blair criticised consultants' and GPs' contracts, which he said were “outdated and inflexible.” The government has ruled out “buying out” consultants in private practice, which it estimated would cost at least £700m ($1050m). Instead, newly qualified consultants will be contracted to work exclusively for the NHS for “perhaps the first seven years” of their career, providing eight fixed sessions and more of the out of hours service.

The right to undertake private practice will depend on fulfilling job plans and NHS service requirements. If agreement cannot be reached on these changes the government says that …