Both Independent Sector and NHS members have voiced the need for a genuinely level playing field in the provision of care under the NHS banner. The choice agenda and the current focus on a plurality of different providers at local level to meet patient needs are key strategic issues for Independent Sector members. Our work in this area has focused on the following five areas:

Regulation

We have been lobbying on the current review of health and social care regulation and the new licensing arrangements for independent sector providers of NHS services.

After consultation with Independent Sector members, the NHS Confederation produced a response to the Healthcare Commission's document 'Regulatory fees for the independent healthcare sector in 2007/2008'. Read more.

Tariffs

We have been looking at how specific elements of tariff structures benefit the NHS over the independent sector and vice versa.

Staffing

With numerous imbalances between the different sectors in terms of training, pensions, additionality and loss of staff, among others, we are working with NHS Employers on issues affecting our Independent Sector members.

Commissioning

We are working on the need for strong commissioning with a local focus and an improved level of commissioning expertise - there needs to be a systematic approach and a broad understanding of the benefits that accrue from having a diverse range of providers.

Partnership working

We are looking at the significant policy gains to be made from joint ventures between the NHS and the independent sector in terms of increased local level capacity and a greater number of services in response to patient needs.