London NHS Devolution
Minutes:
The Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health advised on the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s announcement earlier in the day of the launch of five pilot schemes across London, one to be led by Barking and Dagenham Council, which would see powers over NHS services transferred from Whitehall to local authorities. The Barking and Dagenham pilot scheme would integrate primary and secondary care more closely, focusing on intervening early and managing the chronically ill, through the creation of an Accountable Care Organisation (ACO) in partnership with Havering and Redbridge Councils. It was noted that the scheme would also provide the Boroughs with the opportunity to integrate approaches to commissioning and take more radical action on prevention through the sharing of financial risks and benefits.
The Cabinet Member whole-heartedly welcomed the devolution arrangements which she felt represented a great opportunity to make a difference to the health and wellbeing of the local community.