A Managed Clinical Network (MCN) is a way of working where clinicians from all professions and areas focus on patients and services rather than being constrained by organisational boundaries.
MCNs are defined as “linked groups of health professionals and organisations from primary, secondary and tertiary care working in a co-ordinated manner, unconstrained by existing professional and Health Board boundaries to ensure equitable provision of high quality, clinically effective services throughout Scotland” (Scottish Government, HDL (2002) 69).
There are a number of core principles for MCNs to follow:
- An MCN must be managed.
- Have a defined structure.
- Have a clear strategy statement.
- Use a documented evidence base.
- Be multi disciplinary and multi professional and to include patient representation.
- Have a clear policy on disseminating information to patients.
- Have a commitment from all health professionals in the MCN to practice in accordance with the network principals.
- Have a quality assurance programme.
- Develop its education and training potential.
- Ensure that all health professionals in the MCN actively participate in audits.
- Have a CPD programme in place for all staff and ensure that staff are able to move within the network in ways to improve patient access and maintain professional skills.
- Explore the potential for better value for money.
To find out more about national networks click here.