But, as ever, what might sound like a lot of money is really just a drop in the ocean – and it turns out it will only be used to offset costs relating to strike disruption. 

We discuss the precarious financial and operational position this leaves the health service in, and also dig into plans for a new outpatient strategy expected later this year. 

With Henry Anderson, Annabelle Collins and James Illman. 

Send views and questions to annabelle.collins@hsj.co.uk.

You can listen to HSJ Health Check on this page, or subscribe on SpotifyApple Podcasts, Amazon Music and all the other popular podcast platforms.