The NHS has been given its planning guidance for the first half of this year 2020-21 – and it strikes a markedly different tone to previous years. But what else would you expect from 2021?

We break down why it is more about systems than trusts, why activity rather than output is king, and provide some more insight on what its means for the NHS’s finances and workforce.

We also discuss NHS England’s latest intriguing appointment – Timothy Ferris, a primary care physician who leads a non-for-profit medical group in the US. He will soon start in his new position as head of service innovation and transformation, but could an even bigger job be on the cards for him in the not-to-distant future?

Featuring Alastair McLellan, James Illman and Annabelle Collins.