Shared care in the NHS is a service where a patient’s care is shared between a specialist and their general practitioner (GP). It involves the transfer of care from the specialist to the GP when it’s suitable and in the patient’s best interests.
Shared care can only take place if all parties involved agree to it, including the patient, the specialist, and the GP. It’s usually only done when a patient’s condition is stable or predictable.
Shared care can be beneficial for patients because it can make treatment more convenient. It’s important for all parties involved to communicate effectively and collaborate well.
Some examples of medications that might be involved in shared care include:
- Medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Specialist medications for arthritis and skin complaints
- Some specialist drugs with known side effects
A GP can refuse a shared care agreement if it is unsafe for them to do so. In this case, the consultant will be responsible for prescribing and monitoring the patient’s care.