The future development of healthcare in Forth Valley will be one of the issues discussed at this year’s Annual Review of NHS Forth Valley. Local people are being invited to attend to hear an update on the progress to review a wide range of clinical services across the organisation. This will identify what needs to be done to meet the needs of an ageing population, deliver more care closer to home and meet increasing demand for health services. Recommendations from the Review will form part of a new healthcare strategy which will be subject to widespread consultation later in the year.

Other updates will include the integration of local health and social care services and details of the two new Partnerships which are being created to provide more joined-up and seamless care for local people. In addition, there will be a focus on new ways of working within two medical practices in Forth Valley where a range of healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, mental health nurses and Advanced Nurse Practitioners, are providing additional support to GPs to help meet the needs of local patients.

The Annual Review will take place on Wednesday 16^th September 2015 in the Lecture Theatre at Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert from 2.15 pm to 4.30pm.

 NHS Forth Valley’s Chairman Alex Linkston will also outline the Health Board’s key performance, challenges and achievements over the last year and highlight key priorities for the year ahead.

He explained: “This year’s Annual Review will provide an excellent opportunity for the communities we serve to find out more about our plans for the future and I’m therefore keen to encourage as many local people, patients and community groups from across Forth Valley to attend.”

Members of the public will have the opportunity to ask questions during the Review although it will not be possible to answer questions on specific patient issues. It would be helpful if anyone wishing to attend would contact NHS Forth Valley by Friday September 11^th 2015 and advise of any special requirements. Please telephone 0800 456033 (freephone) or Email: FV-UHB.YourHealthService@nhs.net