Defence Medical Services: Reserve Forces
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 130 of the Strategic Defence Review, published on 2 June 2025, what planning he has undertaken for the deployment of reserves in defence-related medical care.
Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones
As outlined in the Strategic Defence Review, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) recognises a significant proportion of Reserves work in the NHS. The deployment of Reserves in Defence medical care requires careful planning given the impact on NHS staffing.
There is a strong foundation of cross-Government working between the MOD and the Department of Health and Social Care, including on planning to meet Defence medical needs and other strategic health emergencies. Work is also ongoing to understand system-wide capacity and capability, potential future need and shared plans for delivery.
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