You agree! We can help save the NHS

I WAS overwhelmed by the positive reaction to my five-point plan, right, on how we can all do our bit to help solve the NHS crisis. Here’s a selection of the letters and tweets from fellow professionals, politicians and, most importantly, you, the patients.

‘Ask not what your NHS can do for you, but what you can do for your NHS. Self care works.’

Paul Trevatt, nurse (tweet) )

‘Most of us know when we are really poorly and need to call the doctor. We cannot keep taking, we have to learn to look after ourselves as much as we can.’

Mrs V. Spence, Lichfield, Staffordshire

‘Challenging, but right from Dr Ellie. All politicians need to do more on the patient-responsibility agenda.’

Andy Burnham, Labour Shadow Health Secretary

‘Everything you said is so true – why aren’t there more people in healthcare with your ideals? It is a about time we started charging people who do not turn up for their appointments.’

Mary Stock, Newport, Gwent

‘Well said, Ellie! I’m a receptionist at a surgery and need this in leaflet form to give out to patients.’

Emma Morrison (tweet)

‘I agree wholeheartedly with your column. People could help so much if only they’d stop and think, “How can I help myself?”’

Florence Hall, Essex

‘Your five-point plan is excellent and could be used to address the problems inherent in the NHS. The Government needs to listen to advice from the professionals.’

David Barnett, Bradford

‘There is a great deal of wastage in the NHS that we need to get rid of. We have to remember the word ‘‘health’’ in the NHS. That means no more boob jobs, nose jobs or vanity plastic surgery that should be saved up for and performed in a private hospital or clinic.’

M. Thompson, Greenock, Renfrewshire

‘Well done, Ellie. And please, politicians, stop treating the electorate like children. Healthcare is not free.’

Ben Miller, radiologist, Birmingham

‘Well said, Ellie. Your column should be printed on a leaflet and posted through everyone’s door.’

Rachel Charles (tweet)