Former Scottish health minister Jeane Freeman is criticizing politicians for prioritizing short-term electoral gains over long-term investment in the National Health Service (NHS), contributing to the current strain on the healthcare system. Freeman, who served as cabinet secretary for health and sport from 2018 to 2021, made the comments in a recent interview, highlighting a recurring pattern of reactive policymaking rather than proactive planning.

Freeman specifically pointed to the tendency of governments to focus on issues that will yield immediate results within the timeframe of the next election cycle. This approach, she argued, often leads to neglect of fundamental issues and underinvestment in crucial areas of the NHS, such as preventative care and workforce development. The NHS is currently facing significant challenges, including extensive waiting lists, staff shortages, and budget constraints.

The former minister's remarks reflect a broader debate about the sustainability of the NHS and the role of government in ensuring its long-term health. Experts have long warned that a lack of sustained investment and strategic planning could jeopardize the future of the service. Freeman's experience within government provides a unique perspective on the political pressures that can influence healthcare policy.

While acknowledging the complexities of governing and the need to respond to immediate crises, Freeman emphasized the importance of adopting a longer-term perspective when it comes to public services like the NHS. She suggested that a shift in political culture, prioritizing the well-being of future generations over short-term political advantage, is essential for safeguarding the future of healthcare in Scotland and across the United Kingdom.