Artificial Healthcare. My A&E shift in the year 2045.
We can't see the future, but can predict what it might resemble based on current reality and trends . This work of fiction is entirely based on my own thoughts and understanding of what the future might look like for healthcare practice in the UK. The patient references are entirely the work of my imagination, but like all good stories, are based on an element of truth. So, read on and find out what’s happening in 20 years’ time… "Welcome to The Emergency Department!" - a detached, computerised voice cheerily states as I walk through the door into work. I'm 70 now, but still have to resist a childish urge to tell this smug voice to sod off. Yes, I should retire and that would be lovely, but since the collapse of the NHS – and my pension with it – I won’t be able to hang up my stethoscope for a while yet. My work ID badge still says ‘NHS’ on it, but this stands for “Network Health Solutions”, the name of the private healthcare company I’m employed by. Headi...