The UK government’s proposed Health Bill has come under scrutiny in the House of Lords, as peers debate plans that could reshape the organisation of NHS services in England.

The Bill’s second reading took place on 13 October 2026, with Parliament highlighting proposals to abolish NHS England, restructure Healthwatch and transfer the Health Services Safety Investigation Board into the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Single Patient Record Plan

One of the most significant proposals is the creation of a single patient record, intended to make health information available across different healthcare settings and directly to patients.

If implemented effectively, connected records could help clinicians access relevant information more easily when patients receive care from different services. However, the proposal also raises important questions about data security, privacy, implementation and how records would be managed across the NHS.

What Happens Next?

A second reading allows peers to debate a Bill’s main principles and raise concerns before the detailed committee stage. It does not mean the proposals have become law.

The Bill’s progress will be important for NHS organisations, healthcare professionals and patients in England as Parliament considers how the reforms could affect accountability, patient safety and the delivery of care.