Top medical leaders will use simulation and modelling to get the best from health resources through a new agreement between the Faculty of Medical Leadership and Management (FMLM) and the Cumberland Initiative.
Led out of Brunel University London, the initiative brings academics, clinicians and companies together to change the efficiency and quality of care in the NHS in a major way.
It allows health managers to work with Cumberland Initiative experts to find ways to make the NHS more efficient. It also offers training to use computer simulation to streamline services, such as hospital A&E units, operations and bed spaces.
“We’re proud to forge this new link which gives Brunel the backing of FMLM and through that the support of the royal colleges and specifically The Royal College of Physicians,” said Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Julia Buckingham. “We look forward to working with these clinicians as the initiative progresses.”
The agreement gives FMLM members access to multi-disciplinary teams and special rates for the Cumberland Initiative’s training and events with opportunities to join its working projects.
Computer modelling helps medical managers use resources and set up processes more intelligently. The FMLM Chief Executive, Peter Lees, explained: “Systems thinking is increasingly recognised as crucial in the armory of healthcare leaders and is prominent in the FMLM Leadership and Management Standards for Medical Professionals.”
The Cumberland Initiative’s leader, Professor Terry Young, Chair of Healthcare Systems at Brunel University London said: “We are delighted to be part of this exciting move to ensure that clinical leadership is increasingly well equipped with systems methods and familiar with modelling approaches. We have enjoyed the commitment of many doctors over the years in getting the Cumberland Initiative off the ground and value this opportunity for more formal association.”
Brunel has a distinguished history in applied healthcare research, notes Professor Geoff Rodgers, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research & Innovation). “Especially in health economics, bioengineering and information systems. The Cumberland Initiative builds on this by focussing on re-engineering care delivery. It is heartening to see the FMLM join us to build the next generation of NHS leaders.”
