HSJ Health Check

The cash crisis coming to a head

HSJ Health Check

Show Notes

On this episode we discuss an HSJ investigation that revealed an increasing number of trusts are facing cash shortages that are bubbling over into late payments to suppliers. We discuss why this is a symptom of a problem and what it says about the financial pressures providers are under this year.

We also talk about a concerning rise in inpatient deaths at Essex Partnership University Trust, which is already subject to a statutory inquiry into at least 2,000 deaths. This latest development emerged in the same week as the inquiry heard evidence and considers interim recommendations.

More from HSJ Health Check

Oct 9, 2026

This week we discuss the final report of a major government review into prevalence and support for mental health conditions, ADHD and autism, including its criticism of the quality and cost of assessments done by independent providers.

Oct 2, 2026

This week we bring you the health highlights from the Labour Party Conference, including an ex-minister who said he would sack half of the NHS managers he has met “in a heartbeat” for not being good enough. We also discuss a worrying story about a trust at the heart of a major maternity inquiry, after a review found multiple recent stillbirths may have been avoided with better care. And on the theme of public inquiries, we cover some interesting comments made by Tom Kark KC, when speaking at HSJ’s Patient Safety Congress, who admitted they are often hugely expensive and time-consuming.

Sep 25, 2026

This week we talk about why an integrated care board in the north west is risking the wrath of GPs after consolidating its digital offering, in a move that has also raised concerns about its procurement practices. Also on this episode, the NHS has more than £1.6bn earmarked to get more out of digital systems - but trusts say the programme isn’t delivering. With just a week to hit some significant deadlines, we discuss why the Frontline Productivity Programme is being described by tech leaders as a “shambles”, with the centre being blamed, and what its future could look like.

Sep 18, 2026

This week we discuss the final outcome of the Thirlwall Inquiry, which examined the failings surrounding the murder and attempted murder of babies by Lucy Letby.

Sep 11, 2026

On this episode the tech bureau join Annabelle to discuss the final report from the National Commission into the Regulation of AI in Healthcare - a review that had promised to deliver a “new regulatory rulebook”. We cover the key recommendations, including a tougher role for the medicines watchdog, and the big questions that remain. Full story on the review here: https://www.hsj.co.uk/technology-and-innovation/fine-ai-firms-that-harm-patients-demands-tech-commission/8124267.article

See all episodes →