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Services that promote continuity of care: key findings from an evaluation of the national service framework for long‐term neurological conditions

Kate Gridley (Research Fellow, Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, UK)
Fiona Aspinal (Research Fellow, Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, UK)
Sylvia Bernard (Research Fellow, Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, UK)
Gillian Parker (Director, Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, UK)

Social Care and Neurodisability

ISSN: 2042-0919

Article publication date: 15 August 2011

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to report key findings of a study, whose purpose was to: understand what helps or hinders the commissioning and provision of integrated services for people with long‐term neurological conditions (LTNCs); identify models of best practice from the perspectives of people with LTNCs and the professionals who work with them; and develop a benchmarking system to assess the extent to which these models are available in England.

Design/methodology/approach

The research had three main components: a rapid systematic literature review of evidence; in‐depth case studies of six neurology “service systems”; and a survey of all English PCTs to audit progress towards implementation of the National Service Framework (NSF) for LTNCs.

Findings

A number of elements that contribute to the experience of continuity and three service models that incorporate these elements were identified: community interdisciplinary neurological rehabilitation teams; nurse specialists and proactive, holistic day opportunities services. The survey results reinforced many of the case study findings, particularly around the varying levels of service available depending on diagnosis and location, and problems of access even where high‐quality services existed. The paper concludes that the systematic approach to delivering treatment and care for people with LTNCs envisaged in the NSF has not yet been achieved.

Originality/value

This study uses a mix of methods to assess progress towards national service improvement, based on evidence from people with LTNCs and those who work with them. As such, it provides a comprehensive benchmark at a critical point in the implementation of the NSF for LTNCs.

Keywords

Citation

Gridley, K., Aspinal, F., Bernard, S. and Parker, G. (2011), "Services that promote continuity of care: key findings from an evaluation of the national service framework for long‐term neurological conditions", Social Care and Neurodisability, Vol. 2 No. 3, pp. 147-157. https://doi.org/10.1108/20420911111172738

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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