This is a major step forward for the estimated one in six people in England living with a neurological condition. The specification sets out a clear and consistent vision for how care should be delivered, wherever people live.
It outlines how specialised and local NHS services should work together in joined-up networks called Integrated Neurology Systems. This networked model of care is designed to make it easier for people to move between services and receive more of their care closer to home, reducing the need to travel long distances or face long waits for specialist support.
The new standards also place a strong emphasis on tackling health inequalities, calling on services to actively improve access for people in deprived communities and for those who face barriers to care.
ICBs and NHS England have responsibility for making sure they meet the service requirements set out in the specification by April 2026. NHS England is currently reviewing its commissioning responsibilities. These responsibilities are expected to be transferred to the DHSC and ICBs under legislation planned for 2026.
Dr Niranjanan Nirmalananthan, national clinical director for neurology at NHS England, who led the development of the specification, said: ‘The publication of the adult neurology service specification marks an important step towards delivering more consistent, high-quality care for people affected by neurological conditions across England.
‘It sets out a networked model of care that reflects how services should work together across settings and specialisms, supporting more seamless, joined-up experiences for patients. By establishing a clear framework, this specification will help ensure that care is clinically effective and responsive to people's needs.'
Georgina Carr, chief executive of The Neurological Alliance and a member of the NHS England Clinical Reference Group (CRG) that helped develop the specification, said: ‘This specification is a huge step forward for people affected by neurological conditions. It gives the NHS a clear, shared understanding of what good neurology care should look like – something we desperately need within NHS policy.
'If fully delivered, it could mean faster diagnoses, fewer emergency hospital visits, and better day-to-day support for people living with neurological conditions.
‘The challenge now is to make it happen – and we're ready to work with NHS leaders and the Government to turn these ambitions into real change.'
