Will integration help systems deal with health care reform effectively?

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss the impact of demographic pressures on health and social care services and provide readers with a simple way of assessing their impact on local organisations.Design/methodology/approachThe major forces affecting health systems are identified and the likely impact discussed.FindingsIt is likely that between 4 and 8 per cent of existing budgets need to be released to deal effectively with increasing demand over the next decade. Systems that work in an integrated way are more likely to achieve this.Practical implicationsBy developing a quick numerical model, it is possible to assess the viability and effectiveness of proposed strategies.Originality/valueThe paper provides a quick way to think about the major forces affecting strategy enabling the reader to contribute to the identification of possible solutions.