Twenty years of health and social care joint working: A journey from Doctor Pangloss to Private Frazer?

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reflect on 20 years of joint working between health and social care in England, to take stock of the lessons learned and to consider future scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper consists of secondary research, drawing upon two decades of published work by the author and other analysts.

Findings

Despite some pockets of innovative practice, the findings are disappointing for the progress of integrated care. It is suggested that the main reason for this is that the concept has never been used consistently and that underpinning policies have been insufficiently strong to ensure policy success.

Originality/value

This anniversary issue offers an unusual opportunity to reflect back on 20 years of policy and practice in a significant field of study, and to draw out some implications for future directions.

Citation

Hudson, B. (2012), "Twenty years of health and social care joint working: A journey from Doctor Pangloss to Private Frazer?", Journal of Integrated Care, Vol. 20 No. 2, pp. 115-124. https://doi.org/10.1108/14769011211220526