Sustainability and Transformation Plans: occupational therapists and physiotherapists can support GPs

Forty-four Sustainability and Transformation Plans (STPs) were introduced in NHS planning guidance in December 2015. Draft STP’s were published in late 2016. The plans bring together providers, commissioners, local government and third sector organisations to develop and deliver new models of care.1 These models aim to improve the quality, efficiency and sustainability of healthcare services, across England over the next five years. 2 Concerns have been raised about the impact of STPs on GP provision,3 on patient groups,4 and on the number of hospital beds.5 The purpose of this study was to identify the detail relating to rehabilitation, occupational therapy and physiotherapy in STPs. Occupational therapy and physiotherapy are two of 12 professional groups that make up Allied Health Professionals (AHPs). AHPs are the third largest workforce in health and care in England. A recent AHP strategy from NHS England6 has provided a blueprint by and for AHPs to contribute to future services, including STPs. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy7 have promoted STPs in order to move towards a model of health prevention and a rehabilitation system that supports collaboration and integration across local systems e.g. NHS trusts and local authorities. The Royal College of Occupational Therapists8 agreed that STPs can provide a vehicle for occupational therapists to deliver early action, prevent admission to hospital, and implement a reabling approach that improves patient outcomes and saves money.