Managed Clinical Networks / National Networks

There are four key types of National Networks within NHS Scotland:

• clinical networks – in the main, these support service improvement for patients with rare conditions or highly complex needs, e.g. inherited metabolic disorders
• diagnostic networks – bring professionals together to improve diagnostic services across a range of disciplines
• strategic networks – support the planning, financing and improvement of major service change
• cancer networks – support improvements in care for specific types of cancer

National Networks help ensure patients across Scotland have the best possible access to high-quality specialist care. They bring together a range of health and other professionals involved in providing care for patients with rare and/or complex conditions when the full range of skills required isn’t available within an NHS board or even within a region.

Operating on a national level, they work across professional and organisational boundaries to support Scottish Government policy aims. This ensures delivery of safe, effective healthcare that’s designed around patients, carers and families.

Information about specific networks can be found on the National Networks site.