Exploring the new role for ambulance trusts

We continue to look at the impact of system reform and the reconfiguration on the ambulance service. The work programme includes:

• the impact of choice on the service
• a work programme on urgent care, which will include a formal response to the consultation on the developing strategy
• consideration of new models of delivery for services in the community
• a review of demand management
• the delivery of payment by results in unscheduled care.

Working with NHS Employers

Reconfiguration and the future role of ambulance trusts have significant workforce implications. NHS Employers is a partner in negotiating the HR frameworks for reconfiguration and Agenda for Change. NHS Employers is also working to deliver the Ambulance Services Association's equality and diversity programme. Other workforce-related work programmes will include a recruitment drive for ambulance trust staff, targeting black and minority ethnic communities; the mapping of nationally accredited standards for the Knowledge and Skills Framework; working with partner organisations to promote the ambulance clinician role as a profession and collating a response to the recent Department of Health's consultation on Emergency Care Practitioners.

Making commissioning more effective

Alongside the changes taking place following Commissioning a Patient-led NHS and the development of the patient choice agenda, we will be exploring how partnerships with primary care trusts (PCTs) can be developed and improved to provide an effective commissioning process for unscheduled care.

Helping members understand foundation status

Working with the Foundation Trust Network, we will help ambulance service members to understand what it will mean to become foundation trusts, looking at the challenges facing trusts at an organisational and governance level. We will also work with the Department of Health and Monitor to ensure that the application process is responsive to the needs of ambulance trusts.