In our third conversation with former health secretaries, we speak to Sajid Javid about the future of the NHS and its long-term funding model. Sajid was Secretary of State for Health and Social Care from 2021 to 2022, before resigning from the Johnson government. He previously served in several cabinet positions, including as Home Secretary and Chancellor. He stepped down as an MP in 2024.

In conversation with our Chief Executive Jennifer Dixon, Sajid reflects on the challenges facing the NHS and why he believes it’s time to consider alternative ways of funding health care. But what does the evidence about comparable health systems tell us? What are the strengths and weaknesses of social insurance systems? And how can consensus be built on a sustainable funding mix for the NHS in future?

Policy Exchange (2025). The NHS – a suitable case for treatment? 

Sajid Javid (2023). We need to agree a new NHS future or 1948 dream dies.

OECD (2025). How do health system features influence health system performance? 

RAND Corporation (2006). The Health Insurance Experiment. 

Health Foundation (2024). Is the grass really greener?