The Health Improvement Programme (HIMP) brings together local priorities with the requirements of the National Priorities guidance. It sets out the local contribution to the achievement of the national targets and objectives in NHS modernisation and Saving Lives: Our Healthier Nation. The principles and outline of the HIMP process is outlined in HSC 1999/244:LAC(99)39.

The HIMP is underpinned by the annual Service and Financial Framework which sets out the level of NHS service activity and financial investment required to achieve the targets. The HIMP is also underpinned by the Primary Care Investment Plans (PCIPs) which are required from each Primary Care Group/Trust, these set out plans for investment in Primary Care services, premises, staff and I.T.

In rolling forward HIMPs, Health Authorities are required to ensure that:

• the local HIMP reflects the National Planning Guidance and sets out local actions and target milestones in response to Saving Lives:Our Healthier Nation and the NSFs;
  
• that there is a clear demonstration of the stronger and wider involvement of local interests;
  
• that there is a sharper focus on needs assessment, plans for action, intended outcomes, milestones and targets;
  
• that supporting strategies are tied into the HIMP more directly e.g. HR, Organisational Development, Local Implementations Strategies for I.T., estates and capital investments.
  
  

To find out more about HIMPS click here : Health Improvement & Modernisation Plans