NHS Alliance statement: NHS Future Forum Report

Released: 13/06/2011

Commenting on the NHS Future Forum Report, Michael Sobanja, chief executive of the Alliance, said: "The report's findings and recommendations show that the direction of travel is right. We are pleased to see that many of Alliance's views have been reflected on the report. We particularly welcome the support for clinically-led commissioning with clinicians and patients at the heart of the system.

“However, irrespective of the Bill, the success or otherwise of the reforms will be in implementation and, in particular, the balance of power between the NHS Commissioning Board and consortia. Local must mean local and not a fig leaf for centralism. As the NHS Alliance said in its response to the White Paper consultation, the proof of this pudding will be in the changes the reforms will bring about in culture and behaviour, not in systems and processes. And these need to be seen at every level of the system, starting with the centre. More of the same within a different structure just won’t do.

“The report points to valid concerns, which need to be addressed. For example the recommendation that 'competition should be used as a tool for supporting choice, promoting integration and improving quality' and that Monitor's role in this respect should be diluted.

"We now need to move on and create a robust framework which will allow the reforms to flourish. Further uncertainty would only cause more difficulties for managers and clinicians, whilst delaying the drive for efficiency.

“We hope that this time we do indeed achieve a de-centralised and clinically-led NHS that does deliver on its promises. And, in the current financial climate, we cannot afford to delay or miss this urgent opportunity.”

Ends.

Notes to editors:

1.    NHS Alliance brings together GP consortia, PCTs, clinicians and managers as the leading organisation in primary care. We are an independent non-political membership organisation proud to be at the forefront of clinically-led commissioning. Its leaders are all dedicated professionals, who represent the Alliance’s diverse membership, working ceaselessly to meet the challenges facing the NHS today. Find out more at www.nhsalliance.org

2.    For more information, please email pressoffice@nhsalliance.org or call 07772756674.