Aim: The aim of this project is to develop and externally validate a contracting model blueprint for long-term conditions that is:

• Focused on integrated care;
• Collaborative and based on achievable joint outcomes;
• System focused and;
• Based on evidence of effectiveness.

The overall aim of the contracting model will be to ensure high quality integrated care for patients with long-term conditions to support self-management, and end of life care. A key objective will be to promote innovative care pathway transformation through embedding and accelerating the use of assisted technologies in the NHS in line with the 3 million lives initiative.

Approach: A mixed method approach for the development of the contracting model will be used:

• The developing model will be underpinned by theoretical approaches and international research drawn from a wide literature review, and will build on the LTC model of care;
• An important feature will be to capitalise on learning from agencies and industries external to the NHS and transpose key messages into the developing model. This will enable innovative ‘blueprints’ for effective LTC contracting approaches to emerge;
• There will be strong stakeholder involvement of representatives from for example CCGs, acute and community providers, users, and the Advanced Assistive Technology (AAT) industry.
• The model will be validated through consultation with a small panel of national and international external experts and CCG representatives from across the country.

The project has been funded by Kent and Medway Commissioning Support and through the successful application of an Innovation Voucher.

Start date: 01/12/2012 End date: 31/07/2014

Funder: NIHR via EKHUFT

Funding: £34,790

Publications: Development of risk models for the prediction of new or worsening acute kidney injury on or during hospital admission: a cohort and nested study.