As the sector’s Breakthrough Strategy – to double Mecs and increase step-down care – gathers pace, we enter a significant point in the CCG contract cycle. The contract negotiation process with Acute Trusts starts in September with an assessment of the first six month’s activity figures, this influences the setting of baseline spending figures for 2016-17.
It is important for LOCs to work with their Locsu commissioning lead to get a meeting with the CCGs in October to discuss how commissioning extended primary services could reduce the acute activity that needs to be commissioned in 2016-17.
It is also important we in optics are delivering a consistent message and driving change. We need to develop a single explanation of the benefits of ‘extended primary eye care services’ which optical practices can provide.
CCGs will recognise ophthalmic outpatient care generates huge spends. However, what is often less understood, is how much of this can be reduced through extended primary care services. CCGs are also very aware a growth in the referral rate can affect the Acute Trust’s 18-week performance as well as leading to an increase in costs. This provides a window of opportunity for the LOC to press home the quality and cost-effectiveness benefits of primary eye care pathways.
Much of this will crystalise at NOC 2016 where Locsu will be updating LOCs on the strategy and outlining how a consistent narrative, terminology and costings can lead to positive commissioning decisions.
In the meantime, talk to your CCG with your Locsu commissioning lead and make a booking for what promises to be an unmissable NOC.
Richard Wittington, assistant director, commissioning