Commentary on Sections Strategic planning etc. Section 37 – Review of strategic plan
103.Section 37 sets out the review process that applies to a strategic plan. Subsection (1) (read with subsection (10)) require that an integration authority review its strategic plan at least every three years, and may carry out additional reviews from time to time. Subsection (2) provides that in carrying out a review of the strategic plan, integration authorities must have regard to the national health and wellbeing outcomes, the integration delivery principles, and the views of the strategic planning group. Subsection (3) provides that the carrying out of a review under subsection (1) may result in the integration authority making any necessary changes by replacing its strategic plan. Subsection (4) provides flexibility for integration authorities to determine the details of the review process they use, subject to the requirements imposed by subsection (2).
104.Under subsections (5) to (7), the Health Board and local authority are required to provide the integration authority with the information that is reasonably required to carry out the review of the strategic plan. Subsection (8) provides that, in preparing a replacement strategic plan, the integration authority must have regard to the national outcomes for health and wellbeing and the integration planning and delivery principles, along with the requirements on consultation, provision of information and publication that are set out in the Act in relation to strategic planning. Subsection (9) provides that a strategic plan which is prepared following a review must specify the date on which it takes effect.