Timeline: the 2010s in news

Robert Francis QC’s independent inquiry into the care provided by Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust finds that appalling failures in patient safety and care were caused by inadequate training of staff, staff cutbacks, and the senior management team’s overemphasis on government targets.1

The white paper on Andrew Lansley’s proposed reforms to the NHS is published. Described as the “most radical pro-market shake up in its history,” the reorganisation will hand GPs the power to commission most services.2

BMA members at its annual representative meeting vote unanimously in favour of balloting for industrial action over proposed changes to the NHS pension scheme.3 The union warns that the changes will increase how much doctors need to pay into their pensions, abolish final salary pensions, and increase doctors’ normal pension age in line with state retirement age.4

After more than 1000 amendments the Health and Social Care Bill is passed by the House of Commons after its third reading. Many individuals, groups, and organisations still have grave concerns about the plans.5

Government announces plans for a new NHS pension scheme for England and Wales to be introduced in 2015.6

The Health and Social Care Act becomes law.7

Two thirds of doctors taking part in a BMA ballot vote in favour of taking industrial action over changes to their pensions.8

Doctors stage a day of industrial action over pension changes. GPs and hospital doctors provide emergency and urgent care only.9

Jeremy Hunt is appointed health secretary for England.

NHS Employers and the BMA start discussions on a new contract for consultants and for junior doctors.10 …