Integrating health and social care: Workforce perspectives

Abstract

AbstractThe integration of health and social care services has long been an important feature of Government policy, both in England and internationally. This paper builds on the existing literature by drawing out the workforce implications in the drive towards more joined up care. The analysis begins with background and context to the health and social care workforce and recent policy developments. A leadership commentary goes on to address five themes relating to integrated care and the workforce: focusing on outcomes for people, being clear on structures, encouraging innovation, thinking creatively about the future workforce and getting integration right from the start. These themes seek to stimulate debate and increase the focus of attention on the workforce to achieve high-quality services and good outcomes for people. To these ends the paper will be of interest to policy makers and practitioners alike. The focus of this article is on the English context, but the workforce issues and analysis will hav...