Britain’s health service to reduce ‘unnecessary’ treatments

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LONDON — Britain’s National Health Service has proposed cutting back on operations including breast reductions and anti-snoring treatments as part of plans to save money and reduce “unnecessary or risky procedures.”

National medical director Stephen Powis said the health agency could save an estimated 200 million pounds ($264 million) a year by tightening the criteria for treatments where the risks could outweigh the benefits.

The list of 17 treatments under consideration to be halted or reduced includes tonsil removals and procedures for carpal tunnel, hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Authorities will discuss the proposals next week.

The announcement came as thousands are expected at demonstration Saturday in London to mark the 70th anniversary of the NHS and demand an end to government funding cuts.

Opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn will address the rally.