The implementation and utilisation of operational research in the reorganised National Health Service Part II

The paper outlines some effects of the reorganisation of the British National Health Service with its increasing emphasis on service planning. Current policies will involve substantial change in the configuration of the Health Service. Various aspects of the management of change, the involvement with decision makers and the implementation of results are discussed. It is expected that Operational Research in the health services will become more closely concerned with the medical and nursing aspects of the provision of care and the measured benefits to patients from this care. This involvement will assist in the production of more realistic models for decision making within districts, areas, regions and at the national level.