Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Care partnership earns an Inspection first in Scotland
North Lanarkshire’s health and social care partnership has become the first in Scotland to be inspected for its adult health planning and commissioning.
Officials have welcomed the outcome of the report from the Care Inspectorate and Healthcare Improvement Scotland, conducted during an inspection process between May and August last year.
It noted the“strong foundations” of the area’s integrated joint board (IJB) – comprising the council and NHS Lanarkshire and first established nearly two years ago – in supporting more integrated working.
The organisation’s“strong” partnership with voluntary organisations was seen as an example of good practice, while further highlighted strengths included planning strategies focused on individual localities, and engagement with stakeholders.
Health and Social Care North Lanarkshire chief accountable officer Janice Hewitt said:“This inspection report recognises the solid foundations we’ve developed, and reinforces the strong leadership we have in place and the positive impact from our culture of partnership.
“While we’re very pleased with the significant progress made and the positive aspects of this report, we’re aware that there are areas where further work is required and will build on the strong foundations; we’re also aware of the challenges ahead from a growing elderly population and the need to have effective measures in place.”
IJB vice-chair Dr Avril Osborne added:“The inspection bodies have recognised the considerable effort that has gone into establishing health and social care in North Lanarkshire, and I’m confident we’ll continue to ensure people receive the support and care they need.”