Children 'key priority' as new clinical networks announced...

The Department of Health has announced the creation of four strategic clinical networks- one of which is dedicated to 'maternity and children'.

These new networks will be in operation from 2013 are designed to help commissioners reduce unwarranted variation in services.  They will focus initially on the following four areas:

• Cancer
• Cardiovascular disease
• Maternity and children
• Mental health, dementia and neurological conditions

Dr Hilary Cass, President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, said:

'I’m delighted to see children's health acknowledged as a key priority - and for the first time a dedicated network will be in place to promote a culture of integrated care across 12 geographical areas. This will go a long way to helping ensure healthcare for children is as responsive as it can be. 

'The RCPCH has vocally advocated for better integrated care so that vulnerable children don't fall through the gaps in the new system. Links with maternity are essential to make sure there is a joined up approach between neonatal, obstetric and paediatric services - the key thing now is that the networks are effective in practice at achieving these objectives.'

The RCPCH published its document Bringing networks to life in March this year: http://www.rcpch.ac.uk/networks