Healthcare in Gloucestershire

Healthcare in Gloucestershire refers to the provision of healthcare services in the county of Gloucestershire, England. Until July 2022, healthcare in the region was overseen by two clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) that covered Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire. The healthcare system in Gloucestershire has always been closely linked with that of Bristol.

In May 2018, the Gloucestershire sustainability and transformation partnership (STP) was established as one of four integrated care systems (ICS) by NHS England. This move aimed to improve coordination and integration of healthcare services in the region.

Health inequality is a significant issue in Gloucestershire, with people living in deprived areas experiencing significantly lower life expectancy compared to those in more affluent areas. For example, residents in areas such as Barton and Tredworth, Matson, Podsmead, Tuffley, and Westgate live almost 14 years less than those in areas like Longlevens and Quedgeley.

The history of healthcare in Gloucestershire dates back to 1947 when NHS services were managed by the South-West Regional Hospital Board. Over the years, the healthcare system underwent various reorganizations, including the establishment of regional health authorities and district health authorities. In 2002, primary care trusts (PCTs) were introduced, and in 2013, they were replaced by clinical commissioning groups. Finally, in 2022, the CCGs were abolished and replaced with integrated care systems.

The healthcare system in Gloucestershire has been closely connected with Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. These areas formed a sustainability and transformation plan area in 2016, while the rest of Gloucestershire had a separate plan. These plans aimed to improve healthcare services and address the specific needs of each area.

Overall, the healthcare system in Gloucestershire has undergone significant changes over the years, with a focus on integration and improving health outcomes for all residents.