Health and social care is the umbrella term for services which treat ill-health as well as support people in their day to day lives with things like housing, food, personal advice, money or financial aid. It’s a complex system that aims to improve the quality of life of those who need it most, and has a direct impact on their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
The health and social care sector is changing rapidly as technology develops. From meal delivery programmes to new forms of transport, there are opportunities to address the wider social determinants of health that can be overlooked by traditional healthcare services. This will lead to a more holistic approach to healthcare and help to reduce the pressure on public funding and staffing.
In the UK, local councils are responsible for publicly funded social care services. They decide whether someone’s needs meet the criteria for social care, arrange short-term support or reablement and safeguard vulnerable people. They also commission a range of other care services to support the community.
It’s vital that health and social care professionals are constantly updating their knowledge to ensure they’re using the best practices. That’s why it’s important for them to complete Continued Professional Development (CPD) courses. This ensures their knowledge is based on the latest research and evidence. It’s also crucial that they have the skills and confidence to communicate effectively with patients, as well as other colleagues. health and social care
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