Agenda item

The Director of Adult Social Care outlined the report on the Frimley Health and Care Sustainability and Transformation Partnership. Members were asked to note that local clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) had agreed to merge to for a single East Berkshire from April 2018.

Members asked about the future role of Sir Andrew Morris as chair of the STP following the recent announcement that he would be retiring as Chief Executive of Frimley NHS Foundation Trust next year. The Panel recognised the leadership he has provided to the STP. It was noted that Sir Andrew would continue his involvement with the STP after his retirement from the Trust and the Panel welcomed his ongoing role.

In response to a councillor’s question surrounding increasing GP waiting times, the Director of Adult Social Care explained that delivery of the health and social care model was undergoing substantive change. References to increased admissions into accident and emergency, lower uptake of health checks, reduced access to GP surgeries for minor health issues, and lower usage of pharmacy staff knowledge were increasing service demands at local accident and emergency departments. This led to concerns of service duplication and queries around unease of access for individuals. Notably, discussions surrounding the local accident and emergency departments included the resource needed for an extra department, same day access and a way in which urgent responses would be managed. Members discussed the need for a deeper analysis into the areas and populations to effectively understand the needs of residents. It was stated that effective GP management was needed and that a model should be presented, on which the public could feedback their views.

Resolved-   That the report be noted.