The Edinburgh Integration Joint Board (EIJB) meeting on 17 June 2024 focused on several key issues, including a strengthened approach to prevention across the Lothian health and care system, the development of an older people's pathway, and financial updates. The board also addressed motions from the full council and made several appointments.

Strengthened Approach to Prevention

The board discussed the strengthened approach to prevention across the Lothian health and care system. This initiative aims to improve population health and reduce inequalities by focusing on primary prevention and addressing modifiable disease risk factors. The board endorsed the recommendations, which include integrating prevention activities into existing strategies and working closely with community planning partners.

Older People's Pathway

The older people's pathway was another significant topic. The board discussed the closure of Liberton Hospital and the reconfiguration of services to ensure continuity of care. Concerns were raised about the impact on acute services and the need for alternative provisions for day hospital and hospital-at-home services. The board agreed to write to NHS Lothian to highlight these concerns and seek assurance on alternative provisions.

Financial Update

The financial update revealed a balanced position for the last financial year, subject to audit. However, concerns were raised about the current year's financial position, particularly regarding the savings program. The board discussed potential mitigation measures, including reviewing discretionary spending and implementing additional controls on workforce and expenditure.

Motions from Full Council

The board considered motions from the full council, including a request for a cost-benefit analysis of the voluntary sector and options for expanding council provision of long-term care. The board concluded that there was no capacity to undertake these analyses at present but emphasized ongoing engagement with partners.

Appointments

Several appointments were made, including the appointment of Councillor Alan Beale as a voting member of the EIJB and its committees. David Belfel and Ben Owen were appointed as non-voting members representing citizens and trade unions, respectively. The board also reappointed Helen Fitzgerald as a non-voting member and NHS trade union representative.

Committee Updates and Future Dates

The board noted updates from various committees and discussed the proposed dates for 2025 meetings. It was agreed to review some dates to avoid clashes with school holidays and other council meetings.

For more details, you can refer to the public reports pack and other related documents.