How integrated working with other agencies delivers better outcomes for those using adult care services

For this assessment criterion, you will be required to explain the benefits of integrated working. We already looked at some of the benefits of networking with other agencies and community groups in the previous section and many of these principles will also apply here.

Integrated working with other agencies involves pooling resources, sharing information and working in partnership to deliver better outcomes for individuals receiving care and support services. It also leads to a better experience of health and care services (e.g. integrated working can reduce breakdowns in the continuity of care and supports early interventions that take a more proactive and preventative approach to health and social care).

A literature review from the National Institute for Health Research looked at a large number of research and studies related to integrated care. The findings suggest that integrated approaches improved patient satisfaction and perceived quality of care.

A case study (Torbay Care Trust, Thistlewaite) identified that integrated care can lead to improved access to care services through a single point of contact, a reduced timeframe between the identification of a need and delivery, simplified decision-making, increased efficiency of assessment processes, reduced communication failures and the elimination of ‘buck-passing’.

As an organisation, integrated working can reduce your costs and prevent duplication or overlap of work, thereby maximising the use of shared resources.

Further case studies that highlight the benefits of integrated working can be found in this King’s Fund publication.