Dear Secretary of State,
You asked me to undertake a rapid investigation of the state of the NHS, assessing patient access, quality of care and the overall performance of the health system. I have examined areas such as the health of the nation and social care system in so far as they
impact on the NHS, although these were outside the formal scope of the Investigation.  My attention has also been drawn to some worrying health inequalities that will require further examination than has been possible in the time available, although I do highlight
some particular areas of concern.  read further for recommendations