Partnerships, performance and primary care: developing integrated services for older people in England

The development of health services in England is currently shaped by three key factors: the active involvement of front-line health professionals (particularly family doctors – general practitioners) in decisions about resource allocation and service development priorities; the promotion of ‘partnerships’ between health and other organisations in order to deliver ‘joined-up’ services; and the close performance management of organisations and professionals to ensure that they meet externally prescribed objectives and targets. This paper considers the implications and impact of these factors on the development of services for older people. It discusses whether, under these circumstances, health service developments are likely to address some of the most pressing needs of older people.