2008 marks the 60th Anniversary of the NHS. Dramatic stages of reform since 1997 are moving towards an NHS characterised by free choice across a wide range of providers. Levels of investment in staff, facilities and technology remain high.

Following the success of the inaugural event last year, the 2008 Health Business Awards will continue to showcase NHS success stories. The Awards will recognise and celebrate the significant contributions made each year by organisations that work inside and alongside the NHS.

The award categories incorporate facilities, technology, human resources, hospital management and transport as well as the Outstanding Achievement in Healthcare award, which will be Awarded to an NHS organisation that has achieved sustained success in its role and brought benefits to the wider NHS through the dedication and expertise of it staff. New for 2008 is the Hospital Catering Award, which will go to an NHS Trust that has delivered outstanding improvements in food service and nutritional standards.

The 2008 Health Business Awards, to be held at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium in London on 11th December, will be presented by Dr Hilary Jones. Hilary is one of the UK’s most recognisable medical experts. Since joining TVAM in
1990, he has appeared on all manner of consumer television programmes, including ‘The Health Show’, which he co-presented with Terry Wogan, and three series of ‘Loud and Clear’, a medical show for Meridian. He continues to present regular morning spots on ‘GMTV’.

Each organisation shortlisted for an award will receive free tickets to attend the event, hosted by MC Rueben Lynch and featuring guest celebrity presenter Dr Hilary Jones. A drinks reception and greeting at 12.00pm will be followed by a three course lunch.