The Care Programme Approach
The Care Programme Approach (CPA) is a way of identifying the care needs of people with a mental illness. It provides an organised way of:
- Assessing all a persons’ needs if they have a mental illness, and;
- Developing a single care plan which will ensure those needs are met.
Who is CPA for?
CPA is for anyone in touch with secondary mental health services.
How does CPA Start?
GPs usually refer people with mental health problems to the specialist mental health services for CPA assessment. The specialist mental health services will decide whether someone needs to be assessed, or referred back to their GP with recommendations.
What are the main elements of CPA?
The main elements of the CPA are:
- An assessment of health and social care needs.
- A written care plan agreed with all those involved in the delivery of an individual’s care including the Community Mental Health Team, GP and carer.
- The nomination of a Care Co-ordinator who acts as the main point of contact, overseeing the delivery of an individual’s care.
- Ongoing and regular reviews of an individual’s care plan and health and social care needs.
Hafal has produced a user’s guide to CPA which offers useful hints and tips for getting the most out of the process. For a free copy contact Hafal on 01792 816 600, or download from here.
The Care Programme Approach Association also offers useful information and advice about CPA. To find out more, go to www.cpaa.co.uk.
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