An independent review of integrated care systems (ICS) has called for a shift in focus and resources from treating illness to promoting health.
The review also calls for a social care workforce strategy to complement that of the NHS; agreement on a limited number of shared priorities for ICSs; and for local leaders to be given the space and time to lead.
Integrated care systems were introduced across England in 2022.
They bring together the NHS, local government, social care providers, charities and other partners to deliver on four goals: improving outcomes in population health and healthcare; tackling inequalities in outcomes, experience and access; enhancing productivity and value for money; and helping the NHS support broader social and economic development.
Former Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt was asked to chair the review in November 2022, to consider how the oversight and governance of ICSs can best enable them to succeed.
Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board, said: “The LGA is grateful to Patricia Hewitt and her team for involving us and wider local government stakeholders in each of the workstreams that developed the findings and recommendations of the Hewitt Review.
“Councils look forward to continuing to work with the Department of Health and Social Care to ensure that the recommendations on the autonomy and accountability of integrated care systems are implemented fully and without delay.”
