News

Final guidance on the single assessment process for older people has been launched by health minister Jacqui Smith.

Older people will receive their own individual care plan following their assessment. It will explain the purpose of providing help, details of help and what should happen in emergencies.

As part of the national service framework for older people, local implementation of the single assessment process should be phased over two years.

Smith said: "All too often, assessment is done to older people rather than with them, and is often duplicated by professionals because information is not shared.

"Implementation should lead to a more uniform approach to assessment across the country, less duplication and paperwork, and more emphasis on looking at older people’s needs in the round, and getting the service right the first time," she said.

During this year, social services and local NHS bodies should review their approach to assessment of older people, and should begin to implement the process. Further reviews will be required by 2003 and 2004, by which time implementation should be achieved.

 To read a full version of the document click here