- Post a 300-word response to the question Down. - Your answers must use an academic tone, be evidence-based and supported by relevant literature. - Using Harvard Referencing. (Please note that referencing is not included in the word count). Discussion 4 - Strategic Planning In this discussion, you are going to examine a case study on NHS Direct; a 24 hour/7 days a week health service delivered by phone and internet in the UK. Step 1 - Read the following case study carefully: Murdock, A. (2010) NHS Direct: Managing in Difficult Times. NHS Direct. (Case Study Attached) Step 2 - Critically discuss the importance of aligning your organisations strategy with national priorities. You are required to reflect on and consider the internal and external influences faced by NHS Direct between 2008 and 2012 (outlined in the case study). Learning Outcomes: 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the key approaches, theories and concepts that inform strategic management. 2. Critically appraise different schools of thought to healthcare business practice and strategic management. 3. Critically explain and analyse a range of strategies linking theory to practice.

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