Collaboration between MK primary care providers set to enhance services for patients

An exciting new strategic collaboration between primary care providers in Milton Keynes will improve the experiences of patients in the city.

That’s the view of Dr Tayo Kufeji, director of the new Primary Care Alliance:MK, following the launch of the partnership.  Among those involved in the collaboration are all of the city’s Primary Care Networks (PCNs) which represent general practices, the Milton Keynes Urgent Care Services which offers out of hours care, the Local Medical Committee (LMC) of the British Medical Association, and Milton Keynes City Council.

The new alliance will be a strong voice for primary care, advocating for the needs and interests of primary care providers, practitioners, and patients alike.  It will work towards integrating primary care services with other healthcare providers and stakeholders including dentistry, optometry and community pharmacy.  By streamlining processes and sharing resources, the alliance seeks to improve care co-ordination and enhance the overall healthcare experience for patients.

This primary care alliance will bring numerous benefits to residents, enhancing the overall quality of healthcare they receive. Key advantages include:

• Improved access to care – by coordinating services across different providers, residents can access a wider range of healthcare services more easily and quickly.
• Better management of chronic conditions – alliances often focus on proactive care, which helps in better management of long-term conditions, reducing the need for emergency interventions.
• Enhanced quality of care – collaborative efforts lead to shared best practices and standards, ensuring that residents receive high-quality care consistently.
• Reduced hospital admissions – with better management and coordinated care, there is a significant reduction in unplanned hospital admissions, which is beneficial for both the healthcare system and the patients.
• Cost efficiency – by streamlining services and reducing duplication, primary care alliances can save costs, which can then be reinvested into patient care.
• Holistic care – these alliances often include a range of services from mental health to social care, providing a more comprehensive approach to health and well-being.

Dr Tayo Kufeji, a GP in Milton Keynes and director of the Primary Care Alliance:MK, said:

“The successful launch of the Primary Care Alliance in Milton Keynes is a testament to the vision of Milton Keynes primary care providers for collective and collaborative ways of working. “The Alliance is already galvanising new approaches to age-old problems in primary care, because we believe that working together has greater benefits for the patients we serve.  We have also forged greater relationships with strategic partners, such as Milton Keynes City Council, where we have identified common objectives in improving health and care across the city.  The Integrated Care Board and the Milton Keynes joint leadership team have been extremely supportive of the Alliance and the direction of travel for primary care.  We are excited about the future as we continue this journey to stronger and better primary care outcomes across the city.”