ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book introduces some important concepts and functions of management and the manager, relating this to Allied Health Professions management. It explores the changing structure, organisation and management of the National Health Service (NHS) and outlines from an historical perspective through to recent NHS policy initiatives. The book focuses on the evolution and significance of professionalisation of the Allied Health Professions and the relevance of this to their management. It describes the roles, responsibilities and duties of Allied Health Professions (AHP) managers in the context of NHS structure and organisation in depth. The book discusses Australian AHP management arrangements and the inter-relationship between the Allied Health Professions which could have a significant bearing on possible future arrangements for the United Kingdom (UK) and other health systems.
