Developing a competency framework for integrated care working

In July 2022, a statutory requirement for all NHS and social care systems to be organised into integrated care systems came into effect. Integrated care systems are partnerships that bring together healthcare, local government and other agencies to collectively manage service planning, improve health and reduce inequalities. For integrated care to truly become embedded in the UK health and social care system, there is need for a shared understanding of what integrated care looks like at the local level.

This study examined existing frameworks and models on behaviours related to integrated care, and used this understanding to develop and evaluate a competency framework that could apply to the full range of healthcare, social care and multi-agency services. A multi-method approach was used including a review of academic and practitioner literature, multi-agency focus groups (n=4) and qualitative testing (n=91). The work resulted in the development of the first UK framework of integrated care competencies to be subjected to empirical testing. Initial testing supports the validity and reliability of the framework, as well as showing the positive outcomes associated with integrated working (including greater perceived meaningfulness at work and peer support). This framework could be developed and rolled out on a wider scale to support integrated care working.

• Developing a competency framework for integrated care working (PDF, 199 Kb)