Anticipatory Care is a proactive healthcare approach aimed at supporting individuals of all ages with frailty, multiple long-term conditions, or complex needs.
It helps people maintain their independence and health for as long as possible, whether at home, in their preferred living environment, or in their local community.
This care model focuses on what is most important to the individual, working to improve health outcomes, reduce inequalities, and prevent the worsening of conditions.
By addressing both clinical and non-clinical factors, Anticipatory Care reduces the need for hospital visits and promotes personalised, self-supported care, while enhancing collaboration between health, social care, and voluntary services.
Cygnet PCN aims to:.
The foundation of Anticipatory Care is tailored to each person’s specific needs. We collaborate with individuals to understand their healthcare preferences and give them an active role in designing their personalized care plan. This approach enhances their health and well-being while reducing the risks of future health issues.
Primary Care Networks and Community Health services will lead the delivery of Anticipatory Care plans in partnership with key stakeholders, including:
Additionally, the Anticipatory Care programme promotes the welfare and development of staff by fostering supportive, flexible working environments. This enables healthcare teams to deliver better care through up-to-date knowledge, skills, and resources.
Anticipatory Care plays a crucial role in fulfilling the NHS Long Term Plan’s vision to support people in aging well. It brings together primary and community health services along with social care to provide seamless, coordinated care.
Evidence shows that the core components of Anticipatory Care improve both care outcomes and patient experiences, particularly for individuals living with frailty, long-term conditions, or complex health needs. This approach not only enhances the quality of life but also helps prevent sudden health crises that often lead to emergency hospital admissions.
By focusing on what’s important to the person, Anticipatory Care ensures individuals receive timely, appropriate care that promotes independence and long-term health, preventing rapid deterioration and reaching critical points where reactive care would be necessary.