16.07.15
Devolution: Cornwall to develop ‘progressive’ plans on health integration
Local health partners in Cornwall and NHS England are to develop a business plan to move “progressively towards the integration of health and social care” following the official signing of the county’s devolution deal.
Last week, NHE reported that progress was being made on the deal following the chancellor’s Summer Budget. In particular, NHE looked at the local authority’s ‘Case for Cornwall’ document, which recommended that by 1 April 2016 the area’s domiciliary care and care at home budget would be unified and commissioned by NHS Kernow CCG.
Following today’s announcement, Dr Iain Chorlton, chair of NHS Kernow CCG, said: “This is a significant milestone as we work towards our shared ambition of integrating health and social care, empowering local communities to have greater ownership of decisions and resources, tailored to local needs.
“Our innovative approaches in integrating health and social care are already making a difference to people’s lives – and the announcement could enable more resources to focus directly on local patient care and outcomes.”
The government has agreed to work with partners in Cornwall to transform health and social care services. This will involve NHS Kernow, Cornwall Council, the Council of the Isles of Scilly, and other local partners working with NHS England and other local partners to develop a business plan to move progressively towards the integration of health and social care.
Following the formal signing of the agreement the council will now work with its local partners and with civil servants in London to develop detailed plans to implement the proposals.
(Image: c. mousehole newlyn)