Priory has joined the Independent Healthcare Providers Network (IHPN), the representative body for independent healthcare providers across the UK.
As the UK’s largest independent provider of mental health, addiction and working-age adult social care services, Priory supports 24,000 people a year across 270 sites.
Its services span the full care pathway, from acute hospital treatment through to rehabilitation, residential care and supported living, enabling individuals to move into less restrictive environments and achieve greater independence.
The move reflects Priory’s continued focus, set out in its recently-launched four-year plan, on strengthening integrated care pathways, improving outcomes and continuing to work in partnership across the NHS and wider health and social care system.
Rebekah Cresswell, Chief Executive of Priory, said: “We are pleased to join IHPN at this time of significant challenge and change in health and social care nationally. It is more important than ever for the sector to have a strong collective voice to ensure patients benefit from a truly integrated system.”
“Independent providers are a core part of the health and care system, often working in close collaboration with NHS partners to ensure patients can access the right support at the right time, and we know the IHPN works hard on behalf of members to make sure that message is heard.
“At Priory, our focus is on delivering whole-pathway care – from acute services through to rehabilitation, adult social care and community-based support.
“Through our partnerships with the NHS, we support local systems to improve patient flow, reduce out-of-area placements and deliver better outcomes. We look forward to sharing our experiences and contributing to the work of IHPN in the coming weeks and months.”
Through its membership of IHPN, Priory will contribute to sector-wide collaboration on key priorities, including integrated care pathways, workforce development, digital innovation and improving outcomes for patients.
IHPN Director of Policy Danielle Henry said: “Priory’s expertise across mental health and social care pathways makes them a valuable addition to our membership. We look forward to working together to strengthen collaboration across the health and care system and improve outcomes for patients.”
Priory is also a member of Care England, the largest representative body for independent providers of adult social care in England, and is a founding member of its Working Age Adult Policy Board.