No one could doubt the NHS is serious about hearing the priorities of local people.
The Sussex and East Surrey Sustainability and Transformation Partnership is a case in point. Their impressive discussion event in Reigate on 14 February gave real opportunities to talk about the FUTURE (below right).
Yet there was no ‘pie in the sky’.
Vijay Kumar, Clinical Chair, East Surrey Clinical Commissioning Group, (above with attendees) and his colleagues hosted a positive meeting. Managing reality is essential, however. Dr Kumar emphasised a key message: “We can do anything, but not everything.” All attendees joined the debate on the partnership’s big issues but were also asked about their personal priorities.
CARBS was delighted to take part. Our ideas about closer links between local Citizens Advice and NHS primary care were well-received. A Healthwatch person told us about several pilot well-being hubs already open in Sussex.
We look forward to hearing how the FUTURE develops. And to making a helpful contribution.
The event at Reigate Baptist Church was organised by Brighton and Hove Clinical Commissioning Group.