The Clinical Strategy for North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC) has been published and outlines plans to deliver 'safe, high quality care, every time' and become a nationally recognised centre of excellence for integrated rural and coastal medicine and care.
The strategy has been developed through engagement with colleagues, patients and the wider community and sets out a transformative five-year plan to improve health outcomes, reduce inequalities, and modernise care delivery across north Cumbria.
Themes in the strategy include:
- Patient-Centred Care - Empowering patients to take an active role in their health and recovery, with a focus on care closer to home and supported by digital innovation.
- Prevention and Population Health - Tackling health inequalities and supporting healthier communities through early intervention and targeted support.
- Workforce Development - Investing in education, recruitment, and retention to build a skilled, resilient workforce.
- Research and Innovation - Strengthening partnerships with the new Pears Cumbria School of Medicine, Imperial College London, and the University of Cumbria to drive research and continuous improvement.
- Digital Transformation - Expanding the use of technology to enhance patient safety, access, efficiency, and quality of care.
The strategy also outlines specific goals for each of the Trust’s eight clinical collaboratives. This includes the creation of the elective surgical hub at West Cumberland Hospital, the build and implementation of a new Community Diagnostic Centre in Workington, improvements in urgent and emergency services including a new Urgent Treatment Centre in Carlisle, and working more closely with partners in the great north care alliance to develop pathways that increase the quality of care across our services.
The strategy was shaped by over 350 survey responses, community events, and direct feedback from patients and staff. It responds to the unique challenges of North Cumbria’s aging population, rural geography, and health disparities.
Dr Adrian Clements, Executive Medical Director, said: “We heard clearly that people want high-quality care, even if it means travelling further, and that they value recovery at home supported by professionals and technology. This strategy is our commitment to delivering on those expectations.”