A new platform will allow comparisons of dementia data between local authorities and CCGs across England for the first time.
The Dementia Profile tool, developed by Public Health England’s Dementia Intelligence Network, contains information such as how many people have dementia; the number of people who have received an NHS health check; patients who have been diagnosed with depression; and where people with dementia die. It has been designed to help commissioners and other planners identify areas most in need of targeted services.
‘The launch of this profile puts information on dementia into the hands of people who can use it to make a difference, said Professor John Newton, chief knowledge officer at Public Health England. ‘Having all this data available in one place presents major opportunities to commissioners, local authorities and decision makers to change how dementia and dementia services look across the country.’
Public Health England has also launched a ‘data catalogue.’ This resource lists and highlights all dementia data currently available in each CCG and local authority. It has been created to ensure gaps in dementia data are filled, as well encourage joint working across organisations to make more data available for the Dementia Profile.
‘Having more information about dementia care at our fingertips is key to driving up standards, said George McNamara, head of policy at Alzheimer’s Society. ‘One of the problems in preventing poor care has been a lack of information and transparency. This important resource is a step towards tackling the postcode lottery, supporting commissioners to make evidence-based decisions about what services are needed, while shining a light on areas in need of improvement.’