The last decade has witnessed a transformation in the organization and management of primary care. In Towards Managed Primary Care, the authors examine the background and development of Primary Care Groups and Primary Care Trusts (PCG/Ts) in the English NHS. The book focuses on the practical experience of developing and managing PCG/Ts and on the lessons that can be drawn from this for future policy relating to the management and evaluation of such organizations in the UK and elsewhere. The work: ¢ Provides an overview of the background to the development of PCG/Ts in England, set within the context of international developments of similar primary care organizations; ¢ Examines the organization and management of PCG/Ts; ¢ Analyses the impact of PCG/Ts on the provision of health services and on the wider health system; ¢ Explores the challenges inherent in carrying out research into primary care organizations; ¢ Focuses on the future development and evaluation of primary care organizations. With chapter conclusions setting out evidence-based lessons for developing and researching primary care organizations, this book will be an invaluable guide for all those interested or involved in health policy, health services research and primary care organization and management.

Fully updated and revised for its second edition, the Oxford Handbook of Primary Care and Community Nursing is the essential guide to caring for patients in primary care and the community. Concise, easy-to-use, and comprehensive, this handbook ensures that the reader has the skills and knowledge required by any nurse working in modern primary and community care which cuts across different speciality and care settings. Chapters range from common adult health problems to vulnerable groups with extra needs, medicine management, and nurse prescribing. The handbook includes information on how health and social care services are organised and funded, from common technical care procedures to complex situations requiring practical, concise guidance. This is the essential guide to all aspects of the nurse's role. For the new edition material on end of life care has been revised and expanded, with more focus on care of dying children. It also includes new clinical topics such as nursing technology, dependent children at home, and frailty. All chapters have been written and reviewed by primary care nurses and other experts directly engaged in current practice and research. Providing an accessible and instant resource for everyday nursing, and a benchmark of good practice, the Oxford Handbook of Primary Care and Community Nursing is a unique and invaluable companion for all health care professionals working in the primary care and community setting.

"Public Health for the 21st Century is a comprehensive consideration of the emerging challenges for public health policy makers. Its structure makes it accessible to those wishing to dip into specific areas as well as being both coherent and comprehensible to those who may wish to read the whole volume. It is a valuable addition to any public health library." Journal of Environmental Health Research "This is a timely and comprehensive review of the new public health. The book demonstrates a capacity and readiness of the public health community to engage the population to achieve the 'fully engaged scenario' that remains the major health challenge for the UK. Replacing 'political restlessness' with political resolve might be the key ingredient that has been missing." Tribune "The second edition of this text is a very welcome addition to the public health library. The sweep of its interests and the vision it encapsulates marks it out as a true standard bearer for public health into the 21st Century. Its approach is comprehensive and its subject matter compelling. In spite of the challenges ahead for public health, the book reminds us of the quality of those practicing and writing about the subject in the UK today." Mike Kelly, Director of the Centre for Public Health Excellence, The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) This bestselling book has been substantially updated to take account of changing policy and practice. The introduction has been re-written to form a new chapter giving a comprehensive overview of the field of public health, making the book much more accessible to a wider audience. Throughout this book, the authors analyse and reflect upon the influence of history, research and procedures upon contemporary public health practice. The text explores the debates surrounding the meaning of public health and looks at the policy changes that are reshaping its context. Also examined are the contributions that epidemiology and health economics make to public health. Public Health for the 21st Century is essential reading for those involved in developing and implementing policies for health improvement, health protection and the reduction of inequalities in health. It also appeals to a wider audience of professionals, lay people and students who are interested in the wider health and well being of their communities.