Author: Reilly S, Challis D, Donnelly M, Hughes J, Stewart K
Journal: Journal of Health Services Research and Policy, 2007
Volume/pages: Vol 12(4), pp236-241

About the study
This study examines whether structurally integrated services such as Social and Health Services in Northern Ireland are associated with more integrated forms of care management in mental health services. A postal survey was conducted of social service departments in England and Social and Health Trusts in Northern Ireland exploring whether health and social care integration at an organisational level yields integrated care management practice.

Findings
The study found some evidence of greater integrated practice in Northern Ireland’s mental health and social services including more involvement of health care staff in care management; a more integrated approach to assessment and care planning processes; greater targeting of care management resources and a closer link between care management and specialist provision. However, not all indicators showed this tendency suggesting that, although structurally integrated services are more conducive to integrated working, it’s not sufficient to secure it on alone.

Key messages

• Greater structural integration on its own does not automatically lead to better service outcomes.