Objectives: We estimate output, input and productivity growth for the English NHS for the period 2003/4 to 2009/10 using the most detailed and comprehensive information at our disposal. Methods: Productivity growth is calculated by comparing growth in the total amount of health care ‘output’ provided to NHS patients to growth in the total amount of ‘input’ used to produce this output. Output consists of the volume of all health care services provided to NHS patients and also accounts for quality improvements. Inputs include the staff, general and clinical supplies, energy costs, equipment and capital resources that contribute to the production of health care
