In a series tracing decisive moments in the life of our National Health Service, medical historian Sally Sheard charts the highs and lows following the launch of the NHS on 5 July 1948.

A world first achievement - Britain now provided free healthcare for all, paid for by general taxation.

The public were delighted. Waiting rooms overflowed with patients seeking free treatment for illnesses they'd previously had to live with. There was a rush on spectacles, hearing aids and false teeth.

As demand soared, the bills mounted. A solution had to be found to cope with the spiralling debt, one which would challenge the philosophy upon which Bevan's health service had been created.

Producer: Beth Eastwood. Show less