Integration Standard

The Department of Health’s initial thinking about the Integration Standard includes the following seven objectives, each of which is underpinned by service user ‘I’ statements.

1. Digital interoperability

Use of NHS number and digital maturity index

I have access to a digital integrated care record that moves with me throughout the health and care system. All professionals involved in my care have access to this record (with the appropriate safeguards in place to protect my personal data).

2. Resources targeted at high-risk cohort to prevent crises and maintain wellbeing

Use of personal budgets, integrated personal commissioning, risk stratification, capitated budgets

If I am at risk of emergency hospital admission, I will receive the right care at the right time to help me to manage my condition and to keep me out of hospital.

If it would benefit me, I will be able to access a personal budget, giving me greater control over the money spent on my care.

3. Value for money

Clear plans for making efficiencies/performance against efficiency plans, reduction in total bed days

I receive the best possible level of care from the NHS and my local authority.

4. Single assessment and care plans

Proportion of target cohorts receiving single assessment and integrated care plan

If I have complex health and care needs, the NHS and social care work together to assess my care needs and agree a single plan to cover all aspects of my care.

5. Integrated community care

User satisfaction, areas use multidisciplinary integrated teams and make use of professional networks to ensure high-quality, joined-up care is delivered in the most appropriate place seven days a week

I receive more care in or near my home, and haven’t been to hospital for ages.

My GP and my social worker or carer work with me to decide what level of care I need, and work with all of the appropriate professionals to make sure I receive it.

Areas use multidisciplinary integrated teams and make use of professional networks to ensure high-quality, joined-up care is delivered in the most appropriate place seven days a week.

6. Timely and safe discharges

Delayed transfers of care from hospital, stronger incentives and mechanisms to reduce delayed transfers of care

If I go into hospital, health and social care professionals work together to make sure I’m not here for any longer than I need.

7. Social care embedded in urgent and emergency care

Health and social care professionals available when needed/align with seven-day service standard

If I have to make use of any part of the urgent and emergency care system, there are both health and social care professionals on hand when I need them