Developing an interdisciplinary integrated continence service.

Abstract

This article describes how one NHS trust transformed its fragmented continence services into a fully integrated interdisciplinary service across primary and secondary care. The service provides nurse-led first-line continence care to patients across a range of settings, avoiding inappropriate referrals and reducing waiting times for medical appointments. This was achieved by capitalizing on organisational changes, following government guidelines and adopting a process of systematic change. Developing services within existing resources and facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration requires creativity, clinical/organizational credibility and knowledge.