Hold on to the best of clinical commissioning, NHS urged

The NHS in England must not lose the clinical leadership, understanding of their local communities and unique perspective provided by clinical commissioners.

A new publication from NHS Clinical Commissioners showcases the unique perspective brought by clinical commissioners – the clinical expertise, collaborative working with provider colleagues, and an understanding of the population’s needs in the system in which they operate – and argues that these are essential components to developing integrated services that are fit for purpose and get the best value for each NHS pound.

The changing face of clinical commissioning is based on interviews with leaders from nine CCGs in England, highlighting the important work that is taking place across the country to drive through innovations and improvements across health and social care – often in partnership with other organisations.

The report recommends tangible ‘place’ level links and responsibilities, ‘stewards’ and the system perspective, keeping clinical engagement at the core.

Graham Jackson, co-chair of NHS Clinical Commissioners, said: “Today’s report demonstrates why, six years since CCGs were established, clinical commissioning remains valuable to our health and care system, and why it is so important to keep the unique strengths of clinical commissioners as we move into the NHS’s next phase. Our members will be working differently but it is imperative to ensure that clinical leadership and decision making is maintained within the commissioning function at all levels to create an NHS that is fit for the future. NHSCC will be here to support our members as they work to deliver the Long Term Plan and improve the health of the population.”