Integrated care partnerships in Northern Ireland: added value or added bureaucracy?. Issue 5 (9th December 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Birrell, Derek; Heenan, Deirdre
• Is Part Of: Journal of integrated care. Volume 22:Issue 5/6(2014)
• Page Start: 207
• Page End: 217
• Publication Date: 2014-12-09
• Subjects: Northern Ireland -- Integrated health and social care -- Partnership working -- Localism -- Networks; Integrated delivery of health care -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Community health services -- Great Britain -- Periodicals
• DOI: 10.1108/JICA-08-2014-0031
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1476-9018

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The purpose of this paper is to explore and assess the configuration, role and likely contribution of the new integrated care partnerships (ICPs) established in Northern Ireland. Design/methodology/approach: – The approach is based on the assessment of policy background, strategy papers, implementation plans and initial activities of ICPs. Findings: – ICPs have been created with limited powers and an unclear relationship with the existing system of structurally integrated health and social care. The initial priorities and activities of ICPs suggest a focus on integrating health which may impede the further integration of health and social care. Research limitations/implications: – Paper concludes there is a need for robust evaluation including monitoring of progress, performance and outcomes. Originality/value: – First published paper on implementation of ICPs in Northern Ireland. Contributing to comparative studies of structures of health and social care, with particular relevance to integration.