Service Framework for Cardiovascular Health and Wellbeing 2014 -2017, Northern Ireland

The overall aim of the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) is to improve the health and social wellbeing of the people of Northern Ireland.

In support of this the Department has been developing a range of Service Frameworks which set out explicit standards for health and social care that are evidence based and are capable of being measured. The first round of service frameworks focussed on the most significant causes for ill health and disability – cardiovascular health and wellbeing, respiratory health and wellbeing, cancer prevention, treatment and care, mental health and wellbeing and learning
disability.

Work has also commenced to develop Service Frameworks for children and young people and older people. Service frameworks have been identified as a major strand of the reform of health and social care services and provide an opportunity to:

• Strengthen the integration of health and social care services;
• Enhance health and social wellbeing, to include identification of those at risk, and prevent / protect individuals and local populations from harm and / or disease;
• Promote evidence-informed practice;
• Focus on safe and effective care; and,
• Enhance multidisciplinary and intersectoral working.