Commissioning
Map of Medicine pathways are an ideal starting point for commissioners looking to ensure that patients get the healthcare that best meets their needs. The pathways reference NICE guidance as well as other quality assured sources to describe a complete clinical pathway, continuously maintained to reflect the latest evidence and expert opinion.
The Map supports the developing GP commissioning consortia in decisions about local services planning through the provision of best practice information. It enables adaptation by local groups wanting to quickly make care pathways relevant to local circumstances. The patient-focused output forms a comprehensive guide of the local health, social care and health improvement services across all care settings.
Map of Medicine pathways are also available to patients and the public via NHS Choices. This provides patients with access to the information they want to make choices about their care, and a voice in local commissioning decisions.
As GP consortia are set up, Map of Medicine can provide a regional 'view' of the Map that improves the communication between GPs and provider organisations, establishing a benchmark for the patient-centred clinical practice expected. Map of Medicine also offers Local Public Access, a service which enables locally-relevant pathways to be made available to patients, enabling shared decision making and involving them in their care and treatment.