Configuration of occupational health services in the NHS is rising up the agenda in the wake of the Black and Boorman Reviews, SEQOHS accreditation requirements and the need for greater efficiency in the delivery of NHS occupational health services.
 
NHS Health at Work published a new Guide to the future consolidation of NHS occupational health services on 18 April 2012. The guide is particularly designed for occupational health leaders and HR directors in the NHS. The guide sets out the case for change, describes two models of delivery - Managed Clinical Networks and Area Collaborative Services - and utilises a case study example to encourage first steps.
 
The guide updates a 2010 report commissioned by NHS Plus that reviewed the evidence on the ideal configuration of a 21st century occupational health service. The report endorsed by the NHS Health at Work Network Board, found there was overwhelming evidence that a large, multidisciplinary service delivers not only economies of scale but improved quality of care. NHS Plus hosted a conference on reconfiguring NHS OH services in January 2011. Copies of the slides are available to network members here.
 
If you are considering amalgamating your service, we'd like to hear about it. Please contact us on nhshealthatwork@nhs.net if you need further information or have any feedback.
 

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