WARRINGTON has been chosen as one of 75 pilot schemes throughout the country to give patients more say on health and social care.
Health secretary Andrew Lansley announced the batch of local HealthWatch pathfinders to be established from October next year.
It will replace the Local Involvement Network (LINk), and will give patients, users of adult social care and carers more say over how their local health and social care services are run.
The pilot areas will also drive local involvement in the community and ensure people understand the choices available to them.
HealthWatch will also allow for patients’ and users of adult social care to share their views and experiences.
This is the third time Warrington has been awarded pathfinder status, including consortium and the Health and Well-being Board.
Cllr Pat Wright, the borough council’s executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services, said: “Putting patients and the public first is vital to reforming the way that health and social care is delivered and we are delighted to be leading the way in this important step forward.
“Warrington’s HealthWatch Pathfinder will build on the strong joint work of the council, local GPs, the local health service and the LINk to make sure that people have a voice in health and social care services.”
Dr Sarah Baker, accountable officer for Warrington Health Consortium, said: “This is excellent news for the people of Warrington.
“Patient and public involvement is at the centre of Warrington Health Consortium’s vision, and we will continue to work collaboratively with our local authority partners and the LINk to ensure that the people of Warrington continue to be involved in the development and delivery of local health services.”
Patients to have more say on health
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