One of the main strengths of the concept is its flexibility. It can be applied to many different situations in response to the interests of the patient. However that flexibility has meaning only if the operation of each Network is governed by core principles. A key principle is representation of patients' organisations in the management arrangements of each Network. A wide range of MCNs is now either in existence or being developed, at local, regional and national level.
Pilots are under way in different parts of the country, involving different diseases and conditions.
This work will continue, and each pilot will be carefully evaluated in terms of the benefits it brings to patients. The Task Force was established, following the publication of the Acute Services Review Report, in August 1998. It is led by Professor Ross Lorimer and consists of a small core group of members including a general practitioner, a research fellow in cardiac nursing, a statistician, a patient and members of the Department. The overall aim of the Task Force is to develop a clinical network for cardiac services in Scotland. Primary, secondary and tertiary care will be covered, and the vascular template adapted for CHD to clarify who is responsible for what, and where in light of the above, the Task Force will examine new and developing cardiological techniques with particular emphasis on effectiveness, resource implications, and avoidance of unnecessary duplication of high cost equipment to ensure implementation and audit of relevant SIGN guidelines.