This service will provide a physical healthcare solution to an existing gap in mainstream service delivery in Springwood ward which is a standalone 14 bedded Specialist Dementia Care Ward for older people with high levels of multi-morbidity and behaviours that challenge, often impacting length of stay because of difficulties identifying successful community (Care Home) placement. The Ward has been commissioned as non-acute unit accepting internal referral (transfers) from other Acute Organic Inpatient Units in York and Scarborough.

Due to increasing organic bed pressures across North Yorkshire, York and Selby during the pandemic and post-pandemic era, there has been an exponential increase in the rate of transfer and bed occupancy, with Springwood accepting more patients with higher levels of acuity, frailty, and physical co-morbidities.

The service therefore requires a contract with a local General Practice to increase weekly essential Medical input for the unit supports the following:

o Effective Multidisciplinary (MDT) communication and decision-making, particularly around patient's non-urgent physical health, multi-morbidities, and frailty

o Clinical decision-making about care and treatment, including medication discussions, best interest decisions and advanced care planning.

o Additional timely support to Junior Doctors /Staff Grade Doctors / Physical Health Care Practitioners

Award of a contract without prior publication of a call for competition, following PSR Direct award C regulations.