The NHS Review
The South West region has some well established, locally credible and nationally known activists and members who contribute to the work of the RCN and to nursing. Specifically, in the South West region seven RCN activists have already made a significant contribution to the Strategic Health Authority (SHA) review of the Darzi clinical work streams. Their role has been appreciated and valued at the highest level of the SHA.
Lord Darzi's report High quality care for all: NHS Next Stage Review final report was published in June and can be downloaded from the department of health website at www.dh.gov.uk. The next steps in this process within primary care trusts (PCTs) represents a real opportunity for all members, and branches in particular, to engage in the next steps around health strategy and commissioning across the region. The Darzi Review Final Report places quality care at the very centre of the vision the report articulates and as such represents a real opportunity for all nurses and nursing.
Each of the regions 14 PCT’s are developing a strategic plan which details how they intend to implement the recommendations from the Darzi report and their local assessment of health in their area. Once written each PCT will place their draft report on to their website and you have the opportunity to influence the final documents. We would be grateful if you would share feedback that you make to PCT's to us so that we can strengthen your message from a regional point of view. The plans for each PCT will be signed off and monitored by the SHA around October.
If you would like help in locating your PCT's plan please email Tracey Roberts, Regional communications officer, at the regional office (southwestern.region@rcn.org.uk)