Integrated Care Boards

Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) are a key component of the UK’s healthcare reform, introduced by the Health and Care Act 2022.

The establishment of ICBs represents a shift toward more localized and collaborative health and care systems, aiming to improve patient outcomes through integrated care across NHS services, local authorities, and other health-related services.

Formation of Integrated Care Boards in the North East and Yorkshire

ICBs in England were formally established on 1 July 2022, in line with the national implementation of the Health and Care Act 2022. The Act required NHS organisations to collaborate more closely with local authorities and other partners to deliver care services in a way that is more coordinated, efficient, and patient-centered.

Previously, healthcare provision in the region was largely managed by Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs). The shift to ICBs marked the dissolution of these CCGs and the creation of more integrated, place-based healthcare systems. The formation of ICBs was designed to bring together various healthcare providers, commissioners, local authorities, and voluntary sector partners to work collaboratively on improving health outcomes, reducing health inequalities, and increasing the efficiency of care delivery.

ICBs in the North East and Yorkshire

The North East and Yorkshire in the Northern and Yorkshire Division consists of three ICBs, each responsible for overseeing and coordinating health services across multiple counties. These ICBs are as follows:

  • North East and North Cumbria ICB
  • Humber and North Yorkshire ICB
  • West Yorkshire ICB

Key objectives and future aims of the ICBs in the North East and Yorkshire

The overall goal of the ICBs is to provide more holistic and integrated healthcare that improves outcomes for patients, makes services more accessible, and ensures a sustainable healthcare system. Some of the key aims include:

  • Reduce inequalities and improve population health
  • Enhance preventive and community-based care
  • Digital transformation
  • Infrastructure and service development
  • Collaborative leadership and governance
  • Environmental sustainability
  • Community and stakeholder engagement
  • Future challenges and priorities

The Northern and Yorkshire Division Executive Committee lead by the Chair has recently started engaging with our ICB Mental Health Leads to explore areas of mutual interest and discuss possibilities for collaboration and joint working. Conversations are so far at early stages.