Our Vision for Primary and Community Care, published on 3 July 2008 and already placed in the Library, sets out plans to promote services that are more joined-up and responsive to patient needs.
An integrated approach to health and wellbeing will require a step change in the relationship between local national health service organisations, local government, other relevant statutory services, employers, third sector and independent sector providers. The Department will provide support to those organisations that wish to go further in integrating health and social care services and will establish a Minister-chaired group to work with stakeholders and identify how government can best provide this support, including reviewing policy, financial and cultural barriers to integration.
The North West Strategic Health Authority reports that the Cumbria Primary Care Trust already engages with a wide range of partners to improve services and achieve better health outcomes for its local population, including its key partner the Cumbria county council.