From 1995 to 2006, the NHS yearly budget rose to $157 billion (89.7 billion pound) from $68.3 billion (39 billion pound). But from 2001 to 2005, the peak of NHS spending, the NHS productivity dipped by 2 percent.
Andrew Lansley, Conservative shadow health secretary, said the data was proof that Labor's approach to the NHS was a failure.
The Department of Health belied Lansley's accusation. A department spokesman cited lesser waiting time for surgeries, easier access to NHS treatment with 97 percent of patients seen by a doctor within four hours and evening or weekend schedules by general practitioners.
Meanwhile, the British government set out plans to save financially problematic NHS hospitals from bankruptcy and protect patients from its consequences. Health Minister Ben Bradshaw said the failing hospitals may be placed under private sector management to improve patient services.
For NHS units beyond rescue, a special administrator will be appointed to ensure essential services are still available. It would be the administrator's duty to place patient's interest above those of creditors.
