To receive an update from NHS Devon, as of January 2024.

Chris Morley (NHS Devon ICB) delivered an update on behalf of NHS Devon, and discussed-

a)     While it had been expected that hospitals nationally would face significant winter pressures, this increased demand had coincided with industrial action. As a result, University Hospitals Plymouth (UHP) had entered a period of ‘critical incident’;

b)    Through the joint work and preparation undertaken, there had been significant improvements to discharge performance at UHP;

c)     Numerous initiatives had been introduced to increase capacity including Virtual Wards, and the Acute Respiratory Infection Service.

In response to questions, the Board discussed-

d)    Significant delays to 111 and out of hours care, as well as ambulance response times;

e)     The metrics used to assess performance of the delivery of primary care;

f)      Significant variation in the working practises of GP surgeries across the city;

g)     National recognition of the importance of Primary Care and out of hours services in alleviating demand at ED, as well as for early prevention and intervention.

The Committee agreed-

1.     To request that future reports contain updates regarding dentistry;

2.     To request further information regarding the performance of the 111 service;

3.     To note the report.