08.02.12
Joined-up thinking
Integration of services has long been a buzzword in the NHS, but not enough has been done to make this a reality, the Health Select Committee suggests.
Its chair, Stephen Dorrell, notes that leading politicians in the 1960s were advocating it back then, but still fragmentation remains.
With elderly care especially, the integration of commissioning, services and delivery of care could cut costs dramatically, improve treatment for patients whilst allowing them to maintain independence and strip away confusion for them as to who is responsible for their care.
But knowing something is a good idea, and being able to put this into practice are two very different things. Most people wholeheartedly agree that health and social care must become more streamlined, however efforts to actually achieve this have been more of a struggle.
Awaiting the Government’s white paper on elderly care, both those working in the health services and those who rely on them will be hoping for a comprehensive plan of action to implement integration as well as the impetus to drive change through.
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]