NHS releases plans to help elderly and reduce hospital visits

NHS England and the Department of Health (DH) have collaborated to create a plan to improve care for the elderly and reduce A&E admissions.

The plans – which will be paid for through the government’s 5.3 billion pounds ‘Better Care Fund’ – have been designed to provide more dignity for older people and reduce the amount of time they spend in hospital.

It will see GPs, community nurses and care workers coming together to supply better care that is closer to home, allowing the elderly to retain their independence and health for longer.

The plan also aims to prevent unnecessary hospital stays and instill families with more confidence in how their loved ones are being treated.

According to estimates from NHS England, the scheme should support around 18,000 individuals working in roles that require them to provide care in the community, including social workers, occupational therapists, care navigators, doctors and nurses.

Eric Pickles, secretary of state for communities and local government, commented: “People are happier and healthier when they have family and friends nearby. So investing in care services that are tailored to individual needs make sense. It means people can stay at home for longer, which is better for everyone involved.”