Royal College of Defence Studies ‘impressed’ by visit to NHS Cheshire and Merseyside
Thursday, 30 November 2023
International military leaders from the Royal College of Defence Studies (RCDS) were welcomed by NHS Cheshire and Merseyside last month, as part of a programme of visits across the UK focused on political, diplomatic, security, social and economic issues.
A presentation on the objectives and challenges of NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, as well as an overview of our workforce, EPRR plans, digital strategy and population health management, was delivered by Dr Fiona Lemmens, Chris Samosa, Anthony Middleton, John Llewelyn, Beth Warburton and Mark Bakewell.
RCDS representatives were keen to learn more about our relationship with NHS England and how we work as part of a wider Integrated Care System. They were impressed at the independence with which NHS Cheshire and Merseyside operates and the budget that we have responsibility for – the approximate equivalent of the full annual budget of the British Navy.
The cohort also commented on our integrated approach to problem solving – inspired by our partnership working to collectively address health issues and wider determinants of health.
In a letter following the visit Captain Brendan Clark, of the Royal New Zealand Navy, commented:
“You provided the members of the Global Strategy Programme with real and tangible data in support of why you as an Integrated Care System have so many challenges. Importantly, you discussed what you are doing to make things better for the 2.7 million people in your area.”
Dr Fiona Lemmens, Deputy Medical Director at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said:
“The visit with RCDS is always such an enjoyable session. Although they come to learn from us, we find it a positive experience by taking the impetus to think strategically about our work and showcase what we do well.
“NHS Cheshire and Merseyside has committed to providing ongoing support for the RCDS Global Strategy Programme and we look forward to their return next year.”