3 January 2012
NAPC/NHSA Coalition Speaks Out on Commissioning Support Guidance
On 14 December, 2011, the Coalition forwarded to the Department of Health its formal response on the Commissioning Support draft guidance Towards Excellence. A copy of the response is attached with this press release.
The Coalition’s view is that PCT clusters, in partnership with clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), should now be working with other sectors, including the local authority, third and independent sectors to increase the value of the commissioning offer, as well as to ensure, in the interests of the population, that the best value support is available to CCGs as soon as possible.
In addition, the same principles that apply to commissioning support for CCGs should also apply to commissioning support to the NHS Commissioning Board. The whole system requires added value from new and innovating commissioning models at the earliest opportunity.
Dr Johnny Marshall, a leading member of the Coalition, stated: “While we understand the arguments expressed in the draft guidance about the proposed approach to commissioning support, we think it is critical to the confidence of emergent CCGs, with a view to protecting the best interests of the NHS, that with immediate effect, CCGs should have a choice of commissioning support. This should include the freedom to access PCT cluster support, and also support from all other sectors and suppliers. The key is the value of the commissioning support on offer, rather than its supplier.”
Dr Marshall continued: “If CCGs, as statutory bodies, are to have a choice from April 2013, there needs to be action now toe develop that choice. Otherwise the danger is that it will be perceived that another element of the coalition government’s commitment to autonomy has not been fulfilled.”
Dr Michael Dixon, a leading member of the Coalition, added: “CCGs need access to the best possible commissioning support, which they must be able choose according to their own local needs and experience. This means being able to work with a range of providers in different sectors that can offer value and relevant expertise. Choice, self-determination and local focus will encourage CCGs to fulfil their raison d’être – that is to empower clinicians to make a positive difference to their patients and the local community whilst creating a NHS that is sustainable and efficient.”
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