20 June 2012

NHS Alliance Welcomes Greater Flexibility for 111 Implementation

The NHS Alliance has welcomed the announcement by the Department of Health that Clinical Commissioning Groups will be able to extend the deadline for full implementation of the 111 service, originally set for April 2013.

According to the NHS Alliance, CCGs leaders need to have greater freedom for local implementation of urgent care services. CCGs should also learn from the results of the full evaluation on NHS 111, currently being carried out by Sheffield University. A full report is yet to be published by the Department of Health.

Rick Stern, chief executive of the NHS Alliance, said: “This extension acknowledges the importance of local decision-making, in response to requests from local CCG leaders. We also look forward to seeing the results of the full evaluation, which may include pointers on how CCGs can best implement NHS 111 in their local areas.”

The NHS Alliance is currently working with CCGs in East Kent and in the North West to develop a 24/7 integrated urgent care system. The project will look at the best way to commission such a service, including implementation of 111. A report will be published in the September, highlighting lessons and examples of best practice.

“We need to understand what works well and the challenges CCGs face when implementing an integrated urgent care strategy,” explains Mr Stern. “And, while local flexibility is crucial, there are lessons we can all share and learn from each other, especially those around common issues for urgent care systems around the country.”

Notes:

  1. NHS Alliance brings together Clinical Commissioning Leaders, PCTs, clinicians and managers as the leading organisation in primary care. Our leaders are all dedicated professionals, who represent the Alliance’s diverse membership, working ceaselessly to meet the challenges facing the NHS today. Find out more at www.nhsalliance.org
  2. For more information, please email pressoffice@nhsalliance.org or call 07772756674.