New Models of Care
In December 2015, NHS England announced the launch of new ‘vanguard’ sites across the country, where new funding would be used to support the development and roll out of the new care models programme. Today, 50 different vanguard sites exist across the country, all tasked with developing and testing new ways of delivering healthcare services to create the most effective model.
In south Somerset, the Symphony Programme PACs vanguard (focussed on integrating primary and acute care services) was created to plan and develop improved ways of delivering healthcare services; which would both help to improve a patient’s experience and use NHS funding efficiently and effectively.
The Symphony Programme vanguard is managed through a Programme Board where representatives from all key healthcare organisations across south Somerset meet to discuss ideas, develop new ways of working and ensure key development milestones are met.
The Symphony Vanguard is a partnership between GP practices, Yeovil Hospital, Somerset Partnership, Adult Social Care, the NHS, Spark Somerset, (voluntary association), community and other organisations that are all working to implement plans to improve the healthcare people receive, prevent ill health and save funds.
The Symphony Programme is supporting the implementation of new models of care within primary care and Yeovil Hospital to ensure that patients with the most complex needs are supported to live independent and healthy lives. Enhanced Primary Care practices are using ‘huddle’ working and new health coach roles to improve access and decision-making, while Complex Care Hubs, with their teams of Key Workers, Care Coordinators and Extensivist GPs, are revolutionising the way those with multiple conditions are being supported.
By eroding the boundaries between acute, primary and community care we are creating a healthcare system fit for the future of local and national populations.
Considerable progress has been made since the vanguards were launched in 2015 and there is emerging evidence that the new models of care are making significant improvements at a local level. This includes reducing pressure on busy GP and A&E services.