Health Scrutiny Panel

Past Work

In 2007, the Panel looked into the development of a proposed polyclinic in Whitstable and its impact on users of the service. The review heard evidence from a broad range of witnesses including NHS professionals, representatives of various health service user groups, and Whitstable Medical Practice, who are leading the proposal.

The Panel is also consulted on developments in the NHS, so was included in the South East Health Authorities’ consultation on its proposed South East England Health Strategy. This strategy summarises the regions coming health challenges for the region, and how a multi-agency approach would be useful in managing them. Members were asked to highlight areas of concern and suggest ways in which the council can contribute to meeting the health authorities’ priorities through the services it delivers.

Finally the Panel heard from representatives of Kent Student Union and the PCT on the downgrading of sexual health services at the University of Kent. The representatives from the Kent Student Union were able to present the issues to the Panel and NHS professionals, and a discussion took place considering the benefits of preventative care.

Previously the panel has been involved in a joint scrutiny project on Tackling Obesity. The review was a joint project with Kent County Council NHS Overview & Scrutiny Committee, Dartford & Gravesham Council, and Tonbridge & Malling Council. The review received evidence from a variety of national experts, and visited each district in turn to look at what was happening there to combat the causes of obesity.

Another aspect of the panels work is to monitor changes in the NHS structure and comment on how this will affect our district. Since the Department of Health announced plans to replace the Patient and Public Involvement Forums (PPIFs) with Local Involvement Networks (LINks) the Panel has continued to monitor the implementation of the Kent LINk.

The Kent LINk which is now up and running, is an independent network of local people and community groups who work together to influence and improve Kent’s health and social care services.

LINks:

aim to represent everyone in the community - especially those not currently being heard
have the power to investigate issues of concern, request information and get a response, enter and view services, write reports and recommendations, and refer issues to local councillors
provide a one-stop shop for the community to engage with care professionals and vice versa

You can find out more about the Kent LINk and how to get involved by visting www.thekentlink.co.uk

The Health Scrutiny Panel will continue to monitor the progress of the Kent LINk to ensure the best outcomes for the people of the Canterbury district.