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1 – 5 of 5Deirdre Heenan and Derek Birrell
Unlike the rest of the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland has had a system of integrated health and social care since the early 1970s. Following devolution, the reconfiguration of…
Abstract
Unlike the rest of the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland has had a system of integrated health and social care since the early 1970s. Following devolution, the reconfiguration of services has strengthened this integration with a smaller number of trusts with responsibilities for all heath and social care. This article examines the current and planned operation of this more comprehensive form of integration of health and social care. It considers how this experience of integrated structures and working can inform approaches in other areas of the UK. Finally, it assesses the main achievements of this system and identifies remaining problems.
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Derek Birrell and Deirdre Heenan
This paper assesses the recommendations and proposals contained in Transforming Your Care, the recent review of health and social care in Northern Ireland, in the context of the…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper assesses the recommendations and proposals contained in Transforming Your Care, the recent review of health and social care in Northern Ireland, in the context of the existing integrated structures. It is designed to promote a better understanding of the implications of the proposed reconfiguration of health and social care.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper reviews a number of published documents encompassing an independent review and subsequent plans and strategies. It also draws upon a case study of a Rapid Access Clinic undertaken by the authors as part of a wider research project.
Findings
The paper concludes that the planned changes question the ability of an integrated structure operating across primary, secondary and social care. It notes that there are real concerns about the capacity of the social care workforce to deliver services. It is suggested that the proposal for Integrated Care Partnerships can be seen as a reflection of the need for a more localised approach to delivery.
Research limitations/implications
The findings are derived from a small‐scale study and as such may make generalisation difficult. There is a clear need for a more robust evidence‐based approach to the evaluation of structural integration in health and social care and a process for monitoring of this change process.
Originality/value
The article is a reminder of the unique example of structural integration within the UK. As such it could have important lessons for England, Scotland and Wales which are moving in a similar direction.
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Derek Birrell and Deirdre Heenan
The purpose of this paper is to explore and assess the configuration, role and likely contribution of the new integrated care partnerships (ICPs) established in Northern Ireland…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore and assess the configuration, role and likely contribution of the new integrated care partnerships (ICPs) established in Northern Ireland.
Design/methodology/approach
The approach is based on the assessment of policy background, strategy papers, implementation plans and initial activities of ICPs.
Findings
ICPs have been created with limited powers and an unclear relationship with the existing system of structurally integrated health and social care. The initial priorities and activities of ICPs suggest a focus on integrating health which may impede the further integration of health and social care.
Research limitations/implications
Paper concludes there is a need for robust evaluation including monitoring of progress, performance and outcomes.
Originality/value
First published paper on implementation of ICPs in Northern Ireland. Contributing to comparative studies of structures of health and social care, with particular relevance to integration.
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