This Bedfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group paper provides Members with an outline of the direction in which the CCG would like to take stroke services.  The update also provides details on current progress to improve outcomes for patients who have experienced a stroke.

The Assistant Director, Planned Care, BCCG, introduced a report that explained the current model of care for Stroke.  Following a number of engagement events and a review of current services that included rehabilitation services.  The BCCG hoped, in consultation with partners, to provide a better integrated service and opportunities to provide a rehabilitation centre.

In response to questions raised on the updates, the Committee was advised:-

·         The proposed Hospital merger would be taken into account and discharge from hospital to rehabilitation was critical to free capacity.

·         The CCG was working closely with Headway, who would inform future rehabilitation services for stroke and other patients with head injuries

·         There was no deadline to the stroke service review in order that the best outcome can be achieved. 

·         That the BCCG provide a breakdown on improvements in stroke services that are made and report back on the four main priorities outlined on page 3 of the report.

RECOMMENDED that:-

1.    Welcome the general thrust of the provisions for stroke services.

2.    Further reassurance as to how services will be delivered given the merger of the Bedford and L&D hospitals.

3.    Look to ensure that Bedford hospital meets national guidelines.

4.    Need further detail of how the four priorities for stroke are to be achieved.