Have you heard of Integrated Care Systems?
They are partnerships to better integrate care and health service provision.
Joining up care leads to better outcomes for people. When local partners – the NHS, councils, voluntary sector and others – work together, they can create better services based on local need.
Integrated care systems, (ICSs) have been set up to make this happen. Their aim is to improve health and care services – with a focus on prevention, better outcomes and reducing health inequalities.
The 42 ICSs in England are local partnerships that bring health and care organisations together to develop shared plans and joined-up services. They are formed by NHS organisations and upper-tier local councils in that area and also include the voluntary sector, social care providers and other partners with a role in improving local health and wellbeing.
ICSs were legally established on 1 July 2022, covering all of England. These new arrangements build on partnerships that were already in place across the country.
They aim to:
* improve outcomes in population health and healthcare
* tackle inequalities in outcomes, experience and access
* enhance productivity and value for money
* help the NHS support broader social and economic development