Our Objectives
NHSPN continues to build upon its successes to ensure that we provide effective representation for independent sector providers and promote the work and benefits that they deliver on behalf of the NHS.
Our objectives include:
- championing the benefits of a fully engaged independent sector to the media, Government and local stakeholders
- securing system reform in the NHS that allows the independent sector to play a full part in delivering patient care
- pushing for the development of a framework that facilitates fair competition and proper recognition of commercial and investor requirements
- continued engagement with the DH
- broadening our membership so we can achieve our goal of covering and representing the independent sector in the NHS at every level of care.
Our work programme
The network continues its work on issues arising from the transition from Extended Choice Network (ECN) contracts to the new Acute Standard Contract. We have secured a number of helpful agreements in principle from the DH and will work with them to ensure effective implementation.
The network maintains a steady sequence of meetings and events with key external stakeholders, including Government ministers, senior
officials in the DH and Number 10, opposition politicians,MPs, regulators and representatives of ‘think tanks’.
Our workforce group meets during the year and feedback has suggested that HR directors found this a helpful opportunity to share their experiences and concerns.
Building a better operational understanding of the biggest workforce issue – the imbalance between NHS and private sector pension provision – has been helpful.
The group has had useful discussions with Skills for Health and with NHS Employers on the full range of workforce issues, and has monitored developments such as the restatement of DH policy on retention of employment.
This is a new and growing area for NHSPN, and primary and community member organisations will be meeting to clarify priorities on issues unique to this area including partnerships, service and business redesign and regulation. In addition, member organisations are participating across other NHSPN workstreams ensure that primary and community care issues viewed alongside the sector’s other areas.
The Clinical Forum remains one of the network’s most active and effective groups. The most important aspect of the forum’s work has been to oversee our participation in the sector-wide data benchmarking project – the ‘Hellenic’ project. This has involved working closely and effectively with the Independent Healthcare Advisory Services (IHAS), managing detailed and complex contract negotiations with Dr Foster and addressing existing IT issues with member organisations. It is a rewarding outcome that the participation agreements and contract with Dr Foster were formally signed as the year ended. This means that, within a few months, the network will have a stream of quality data that allows industry benchmarking internally and with the mainstream NHS.
For more information on our work programme please contact leah.bevington@nhsconfed.org.