Global Healthcare Recruitment Specialists

The strategic health authority has outlined plans to increase life expectancy by 11 per cent for men and 16 per cent for women by 2011. In its report, Healthier Horizons for the North West, it pledges to put in place personalised budgets for patients with long-term conditions and to increase choice and support for those at advanced stages of illness to die at home. In addition, children's trusts will plan services for children and young people, linking health, social care and the voluntary sector.

The SHA has set out 10 "touchstone tests" with measurable outcomes, devised as indicators to show whether report goals are being achieved. NHS North West chief executive Mike Farrar said: "We are proud of the considerable progress that has been made in the North West towards a healthier future for our citizens and share Lord Darzi's vision of a fairer, more personalised, safe and accountable health service.