The service is likely to need to contribute £20bn in savings from 2011-2014. In response to that challenge, the DH have established a series of programmes around the theme of QIPP (Quality, Innovation, Productivity and Prevention).
These programmes have the dual aim of driving improvements in both NHS quality and efficiency. Currently, there is no workstream specifically relating to mental health services.
In 2010/11 the Mental Health Network will be working to support members in this area, in close conjunction with partners from the Department of Health, Audit Commission, the National Mental Health Development Unit and others.
Seeking member case studies
The Network is particularly interested to identify and spread good practice learning from individual members who have undertaken re-design projects or other initiatives that have led to increased quality and efficiency. If you have a story to share, please contact Rebecca Cotton, Policy Manager, on 020 70743311 or rebecca.cotton@nhsconfed.org.
Mental Health QIPP framework
The Mental Health Network has been involved in talks with the Department of Health, Audit Commission and others about how mental health providers could be supported on delivering on the QIPP agenda.
We have produced a paper which provides a narrative on where the sector has come from and the scale of the challenge ahead, and outlines what, as a collection of national organisations and agencies (Department of Health, National Mental Health Development Unit, Audit Commission, and the NHS Confederation’s Mental Health and Primary Care Trust Networks), we commit to doing together to help mental health services, and the NHS more broadly, drive up quality and efficiency.
Within that, the paper outlines three areas for further joint work:
• supporting improvements in the acute care pathway
• looking at out of area treatments
• physical / mental health interface – including how mental health can support colleagues working in the acute and primary care sector on areas like tackling medically unexplained symptoms and improving liaison services.
Further joint work will be taken forward by the lead organisations indicated. The network will keep members up to date on the production of further resources and tools through those work programmes.
If you have any questions or comments regarding the paper please email Rebecca Cotton, Policy Manager, on Rebecca.cotton@nhsconfed.org.