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Richard Murray, Director of Policy for The King’s Fund, commented on NHS Improvement’s figures on NHS provider sector performance in the third quarter of the year (October to December 2016) 

‘There has been a huge effort from staff right across the NHS to manage unprecedented levels of demand and we should recognise the progress that has been made in halting the downward spiral of NHS finances inherited from previous years. Given the backdrop of rises in delayed transfers of care and staff shortages, this is no small achievement.

‘But there is no doubt that these are worrying figures that highlight how serious the NHS’s financial position is, both for this year and the years ahead. Even if the Department of Health manages to remain within its spending limit this year, the prospects for the rest of this parliament are extremely challenging.'

Notes to editors: 

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The King's Fund is an independent charity working to improve health and care in England. We help to shape policy and practice through research and analysis; develop individuals, teams and organisations; promote understanding of the health and social care system; and bring people together to learn, share knowledge and debate. Our vision is that the best possible health and care is available to all.