In October 2022, WYAAT launched a service transformation programme for neurology services across our region. The purpose and vision of the programme is to deliver a sustainable, equitable & outstanding neurology service for West Yorkshire and Harrogate.

Areas within the scope of the programme include acute hospital in-patient and outpatient care, provision for on-call and out-of-hours neurology service, neurophysiology, neurorehabilitation, and reconfiguration of subspecialty services such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, headache, and Parkinson’s disease.

The programme will address several key improvements including:

• Development and implementation of a new network neurology service
• Improved service planning for acute in-patient and out-patient pathways
• Patient pre-referral and clinical pathway optimisation across Places and partner organisations
• A workforce strategy to meet the needs of the service, develop new roles and harness good practice
• Alignment with NHSE policy and neurosciences transformation programme.

The primary aim of the new neurology service will be to ensure patients are cared for as close to home, by the most appropriate healthcare professional, at the most appropriate time. The programme will also ensure patients have equitable access to general and specialist services in a timely manner.

There will be phased approach to the neurology programme which is likely take up to three to four years to fully embed across WYAAT.