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Outline

Accounting for (A) Public Good: Public Healthcare in England

2009, Financial Accountability & Management

https://doi.org/10.1111/J.1468-0408.2009.00485.X

Abstract
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This paper reviews recent developments in NHS accounting practices, particularly the shifts towards a more commercial accounting approach influenced by New Public Management and New Public Financial Management. It questions the alignment of these practices with the concept of public goods and the implications for public healthcare in terms of accountability, efficiency, and public interest. By examining the context of public benefit entities in healthcare, the paper highlights the deficiencies in the current accounting technologies and suggests that a different accounting framework is needed to protect the public interest and enhance transparency in the use of taxpayer resources.

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