Care boards merger contested

A BID to merge a Cornwall health board with one in Devon has been described as a “fait accompli” which has been “imposed” on the Duchy.

- LEE TREWHELA

Concerns that the move by NHS England could see a “backward step” in healthcare in Cornwall have been aired at a council meeting.

A full meeting of Cornwall Council heard on Tuesday that NHS England has approved the merger of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board (ICB) and Devon ICB into a single cluster, as part of national plans to streamline Integrated Care Boards - reducing the number from 42 to 26. This is part of wider NHS ten-year plan reforms.

The Duchy’s ICB is responsible for planning, buying and monitoring health and care services for the population of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Essentially, the ICB acts as the strategic leader for health and care services in the region, ensuring they are joined up and meet the needs of the population.

Liberal Democrat councillor Nicky Chopak proposed a motion at the meeting to ensure that Cornwall will still have dedicated leadership within any new joint ICB, and has a strong voice in the delivery of health and care services for residents.