The NHS is currently undergoing a transformation, in how services are commissioned (purchased). As part of this, GPs and clinicians will be put at the heart of decision making.
The Telford and Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has been set up, to take over the commissioning of the majority of local NHS services from April 2013, and is already working in shadow form being granted delegated authority from the PCT for commissioning some services.
The CCG covers the total population of Telford and Wrekin (around 170,000), includes the 22 GP practices in the area, and is aligned with the boundaries of Telford and Wrekin Council.
Why are we setting up a Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG)?
The Health and Social Care Bill proposes substantial change to the way the NHS is organised. As part of this Bill Primary Care Trusts will cease to exist from April 2013 and local Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) will become accountable for the vast majority of local clinical decisions they make.
The national changes will also see certain public health functions currently carried out by the PCT transfer into local authorities and the setting up of new Health and Wellbeing Boards.
In preparation for April 2013 Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs), led by clinicians, are developing and will soon enter into a year shadowing the function of PCTs.
Who is on the CCG?
CCGs are being set up across the country, with the aim of putting GPs and clinicians at the heart of clinical commissioning decisions. GPs and clinicians have regular contact with patients, and for this reason are best placed to know what services are needed locally. Take a look at our Board page to find out more about members of the CCG Board.
What does shadow form mean?
The CCG Board has been working closely with PCT in preparation for taking on their new responsibilities. As part of their development every CCG will have to be authorised by the National Commissioning Board. In order to achieve authorisation, the CCGs must demonstrate they are ready for taking on their new responsibilities. To do this the CCGs has been shadowing the PCTs for the last 12 months (April 2012-March 2013). The CCGs are currently sub-committees of the PCT, reporting to the PCT Board. Over the next year the CCG will take the lead on local commissioning decisions, reporting back to the PCT Board.
We would like to stress that both PCT staff and clinicians are working together to ensure that there is a seamless transition between organisations. Local people should see no adverse change to how their local NHS operates.
Find out more
This is an exciting time for the NHS locally, and through this section of the website we will aim to keep you updated with the latest news and developments of the CCG.