Single Shared Assessment
What is Single Shared Assessment?
Single Shared Assessment (SSA) is the streamlining of the assessment process whereby the needs of the individual are identified and subsequent services are put in place.
Why use SSA?
Once the SSA process is implemented it will reduce duplication of activity in the area of needs assessment. This will make services available to users more quickly.
How will SSA work?
In order for SSA to work it requires the sharing of information across agencies. To this end, minimum information standards have been developed for older people. Local partnerships compliance with the National Minimum Standards for Older People will begin the process of a common language for assessment of older people. All other care groups will be covered in the near future.
SSA is being supported through the development of electronic single shared assessment processes. Protocols for effective information sharing are part of the eCare programme.
When will SSA be implemented?
SSA is currently being implemented incrementally across Scotland. It is expected that all partners would be using SSA by March 2006. This has been achieved with differing degrees of success across partners due to various factors, developments in the health sector, demographies etc.
The current aim is to achieve parity in all the systems across Scotland and meetings are being convened to that effect.
Circular CCD8 2004