Overview of the service
The primary purpose of Care Information Scotland is to provide information about community care services for older people, but it is extensible to allow for other services to be added in the future if required. A key role of the service is to act as a guide through the maze of information sources that are currently available, but it is more than a signposting service and aims to resolve the majority of queries directly without the need to refer customers to other organisations. The service includes national information and information about locally delivered services and caters for a disparate target audience. It makes as much use of existing information sources as possible but works with providers to fill any gaps.
Categories of information include: how to access care; care at home; care homes; supported housing; how much does care cost (including explanation of free personal and nursing care and Direct Payments); how to complain; care standards and care commission inspection reports etc. The Care Information Scotland website also makes use of the searchable database for support organisations such as Citizen's Advice and unpaid carers organisations.
Date for service to go live
A "pilot" of the service is due to commence in early October 2009 within Tayside. The pilot will enable NHS24 to establish the level of demand for the national service and to enhance the service to take account of frequently asked questions etc. prior to the national roll-out which is scheduled for Spring 2010. A marketing strategy has been developed for the service.
Background
For further information