CEO Blog- December 2014

As 2014 draws to its close it encouraging to reflect on the progress made in the AHSN –a year ago premises were not quite ready, the team was not in place & the company not set up, whilst we have successfully addressed these issues the most important aspect of progress over the year has been the difference are projects are making for patients and the economy. A few of these were highlighted at the recent NHS England visit to the AHSN: Professor Rob Middleton and Tom Wainwright who lead the Bournemouth University Research Institute explained their strong clinical performance and research portfolio; they set out how the crucial role the AHSN has had over the last year in securing investment and ensuring clinical trial numbers have grown. The AHSN has worked closely with Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership on this programme and together we have secured over £4 million funding, including investment from abroad.

Our respiratory programme also featured, with GP, Dr Andy Whittamore and pharmacist Fliss Mitchell explaining the MISSION severe asthma clinic which is speeding diagnosis and improving care, and the COPD screening service provided from community pharmacies. These AHSN backed, clinically led projects are beginning to address the burden of respiratory disease in Wessex and just part of the overall programme. Do take a look at our photomontage of the MISSION Severe Asthma Clinics and our short film created to help pharmacy teams to recruit to the Community Pharmacy COPD Screening Service.

For these and all our other programmes we are looking at plans for 2015-16 – asking the key question: what benefits can we promise to deliver by April 2016. We look forward to working with member organisations, our various partners and the wider community to build on this year’s success and make a significant impact on health and wealth in 2015.

Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

Martin Stephens

Chief Executive