An interesting approach to resource allocation
With rationing in the NHS being an unmentionable phrase that we all live with, maybe it is time to approach the allocation of resources in a more rational way.
An interesting write up in Harvard Magazine (From Anecdote to Equation) looks at the approach proposed by Ramsey professor of political economy Richard Zeckhauser and coauthor Peter Schuck in their book Targeting in Social Programs: Avoiding Bad Bets, Bad Apples, and Bad Policies.
In any system (such as the NHS), unless resources are unlimited, there will always be some form of "rationing" or rationalizing of treatment choices & delivery. If decisions are made on the basis of a formula that ensures that the "best bet" gets the resource it needs, although cruel in the short term, will result in a fairer system and a healthier population.