Policy paper

Summary of strategic framework

Updated 21 August 2023

Applies to England

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/major-conditions-strategy-case-for-change-and-our-strategic-framework/summary-of-strategic-framework

Description of image

Together, 6 groups of major health conditions drive over 60% of mortality and morbidity in England, and it is increasingly common for patients to experience 2 or more of these conditions at the same time.

The 6 groups are:

  • cancer
  • chronic respiratory disease
  • dementia
  • cardiovascular disease (including stroke) and diabetes
  • musculoskeletal disorders
  • mental ill health

Our strategic framework focuses on:

  • primary prevention - acting across the population to reduce risk of disease
  • secondary prevention - halting progression of conditions or risk factors for an individual
  • early diagnosis - so we can identify health conditions early, to make treatment quicker and easier
  • prompt and urgent care - treating conditions before they become crises
  • long-term care and treatment - in both NHS and social care settings

To have the greatest impact, we will prioritise change in 5 areas:

  • rebalancing the health and care system towards proactive prevention by managing personalised risk factors
  • embedding early diagnosis and treatment in the community
  • managing multiple conditions effectively - including through aligning generalism and specialism
  • better connection and integration between physical and mental health services
  • shaping services and support around people, giving them more choice and control over their care
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