LONDON - A REPORT says that a huge funding shortfall could force Britain to make cutbacks to its system of socialized health care.
The study published on Wednesday by the NHS Confederation claims that Britain's National Health Service faces a 15 billion pound (S$36 billion) deficit.
It says the shortfall is so large the government may need to make cuts to services including dentistry and fertility treatment.
The NHS Confederation represents hospitals and authorities that manage mental health and ambulance services.
It said the outlook for the National Health Service beyond 2010 is 'extremely challenging.'
Britain's Health Secretary Andy Burnham says concerns that hospital closures or job cuts are on the way are premature. -- AP
