Health Reform and Public Health Cabinet Committee - Tuesday, 14th May, 2024 10.00 am

May 14, 2024 View on council website Watch video of meeting
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Summary

The meeting began with a brief overview of safety protocols and the announcement of apologies from Mrs. Game and Mr. Tills, with Mr. Ross and Mrs. Constantine joining virtually. The main topics discussed included the passing of Mr. James Williams, updates on public health initiatives, and the extension of key public health contracts.

The most significant topic was the passing of Mr. James Williams, Director of Public Health for Medway. Dr. Ghosh, Mr. Watkins, and Mrs. Cole paid heartfelt tributes, highlighting his contributions to public health and his personal qualities. The committee agreed to officially record their condolences to his family.

Next, Mr. Watkins provided updates on public health initiatives. He highlighted the work of Kent's public health champions, National Walking Month, and additional MMR vaccine catch-up clinics. He encouraged participation in walking activities and emphasized the importance of MMR vaccinations due to a national rise in measles cases.

Dr. Ghosh added updates on measles and whooping cough infections, the Better Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Fund, and the award-winning Kent and Medway suicide prevention program. He also discussed the Family Hub program, mental health awareness, and the development of healthy alliances with district councils.

The committee then discussed the extension of contracts with Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust (KCHFT) and Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW). Dr. Ghosh and Chloe explained the need for a 12-month extension to support the public health transformation program. The extension would help manage workforce stability, explore interdependencies, and align with new procurement legislation. The committee approved the extensions after a detailed discussion on the financial and practical implications.

The performance management overview was presented, addressing the need for more challenging key performance indicators (KPIs). The committee noted the approach to KPI selection and target setting, with plans to introduce strategic indicators from the Kent Public Health Observatory.

Finally, the draft Kent and Medway Integrated Care Strategy Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy Delivery Plan was discussed. Dr. Ghosh and Mike Gogarty outlined the plan's structure and purpose, emphasizing its role in consolidating activities across Kent and Medway. The committee noted the progress and supported the continued development of the shared delivery plan.

The meeting concluded with a review of the work program, agreeing to consider any additional items in a future agenda-setting meeting.