Within the Elder Care Canterbury Project there are a number of specific projects. The models developed for the initial projects by the project teams are currently being implemented. For some projects implementation of the full service commences immediately, for more complex projects the new service is piloted prior to the move to full implementation. As part of the development of the new services, it was identified that there were a number of key elements that were common to a range of conditions. In 1999 project teams began to look at new models for these generic services and some pilots have already commenced.
Integration is about changing minds and attitudes.
Focusing on the initial projects has caused a much wider process to begin. Clinicians have begun sharing information across disciplines and across sectors in a much more productive way. Clinicians and management are now working together to give the best possible outcome for patients. In August 1998 the Project was selected as one of the Health Funding Authorities National Demonstration Integration Projects. The Project has a policy of total transparency and is committed to sharing information with other providers both nationally and internationally.