Chris Morley (NHS Devon) delivered the NHS Devon Update to the Board and discussed:

a)    The NHS Devon annual accounts report had been published, concluding the first full year of NHS Devon ICB’s operation;

b)    While there were many challenges and pressures within the report, including an £80MM financial deficit position, there were areas of progress across the system including elective care waiting lists and urgent and emergency care;

c)     There was a savings requirement for £213MM next year;

d)    NHS Devon was part of an ‘organisational change process’, with a national requirement to reduce running costs by 30%. The process was entering its final phase for implementation;

e)    General practise collective action had been ongoing nationally since August. While difficult to predict, management and response plans were in place and stakeholders received regular communication;

f)     Winter planning was ongoing with partners to ensure adequate preparation for ‘surge’ periods, as well as vaccination programmes and communication engagement;

g)     End of life care review work was ongoing, to create a sustainable, consistent and equitable offer across Devon.

In response to questions, the Board discussed:

h)    Seasonal immunisation programmes including Covid and Flu. Eligibility for the Covid Autumn booster had been released;

i)     The ‘Pharmacy First’ programme including community pharmacy consultations and impact on GP services demand;

j)     Communication and engagement plans for winter, and the importance of clear messaging to inform patient decisions ad service access.

The Board agreed to note the report.