When was the National Health Service (NHS) founded?

The National Health Service (NHS) was founded in 1948, marking a significant shift in the way healthcare was provided in the UK. The establishment of the NHS aimed to provide comprehensive healthcare services to all citizens of Britain, funded through taxation, regardless of their financial status. This was a key part of post-war reforms intended to improve living standards and address the health needs of the population after World War II.

The implementation was guided by the Beveridge Report of 1942, which laid the groundwork for various welfare provisions, including healthcare. However, the actual launch of the NHS, where services officially began, took place on July 5, 1948. This milestone represents a critical development in the establishment of a publicly funded healthcare system, ensuring that medical treatment is accessible to everyone.