ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses policy issues and their implications at national and local levels and reviews published research that may inform future decision making. Primary care is not only a key health policy commitment for the NHS but it is also a priority for service planning for the future. However, these ideas are painted with a broad brush and leave many health professionals speculating about the form and content of future services. The chapter explores some aspects of the move towards a primary care-led NHS. It contributes to the debate including an assessment of the future role of the National Centre in informing future discussions with research evidence. Anne Rogers and Jennie Popay argue that for a primary care-led NHS to produce real patient benefits, a change in professional-lay relationships is needed. Bonnie Sibbald considers key issues in the move towards a primary care-led NHS that presents many opportunities for improved services for patients through local innovation and demonstrations of good practice.
