The health and social care divide: bridging the gap

It is nearly three years since the full introduction of the reforms advocated in the Caring for People White Paper (DoH 1989) and reports and articles are now being published which comment on the initial effects of these changes, particularly those which have arisen from the health and social care divide created by the reforms. This article examines the nature of this division of responsibility, its implications for patients and for nursing practice. Some positive developments and possible courses of action are also considered.