Programme
Wednesday, 17th March 2010
Registration and refreshments
Introduction and welcome from the Chair
Demystifying the new era of commissioning
World Class Commissioning
With World Class Commissioning now thoroughly embedded within the NHS, what does it really look like and how has it impacted on the way that health and care services are commissioned? Understand how NHS commissioning has changed, the new expectations, and the skills and competencies now needed to deliver this vision. Find out what this new era means for those working within and with the NHS, and how the new model is likely to evolve in future.
Commissioning for Quality and Efficiency
As the organising principle for the NHS, quality has become the main focus for commissioners. But how can you commission to ensure effectiveness of care, positive patient experience and safety? And what role does CQUIN play in achieving this? Understand how Darzi’s vision of ‘High Quality care for all’ will continue to impact on the role of NHS commissioning now and in future.
Question and answer session
Morning refreshments
Practice Based Commissioning
In light of the new model of World Class Commissioning, where does this leave Practice Based Commissioning and how do the two agendas fit together? Understand the role of PBC and the relationship between the World Class Commissioning PCT and PBC groups. Evaluate current uptake of PBC, the buy-in of GPs, how successful it has been in delivering care closer to home and the next steps to fully release its potential.
Commissioning for Health and Wellbeing
With the shift in focus from outputs to delivering optimum health outcomes, the commissioning for health and wellbeing agenda has gained impetus. This change in the definition of ‘health’ from beyond the mere absence of disease, to the integration of physical, psycho-social and socio-economic wellbeing can only be achieved through real collaboration across public sector organisations. But how can the NHS play its part in reducing inequalities? And to what extent can all stakeholders play a role in the World Class Commissioning agenda? Learn how to approach joint commissioning and overcome conflicting priorities of partners.
Payment by Results
In this new commissioning arena, how do tariffs fit into the process and what are the implications for how money flows around the system? Gain clarity on how PbR works. What has been the impact of the new look HRG4 Reference Costs Grouper and what are the implications for commissioners? Understand the value of data assurance and the importance of accurate information to commissioning. See how tariffs can be unbundled to facilitate pathway redesign and how the national model of PbR is locally interpreted and what this means for commissioning.
Question and answer session
Lunch
Getting to grips with the commissioning cycle
Stage One - Planning
The planning phase of the commissioning cycle sets the strategy for each PCT’s direction and priorities. But how are local needs and current services assessed, and what information is required to evaluate service models and analyse gaps in provision? Understand how patient and public engagement is achieved to influence service planning and decide priorities, and how potential risks can be managed within the planning process. Gain clarity on how health outcomes and financial goals are set.
Stage Two - Execution
The execution phase decides the operating plan for how the PCT aims to achieve the goals set in the planning stage. How are these activity schedules and action plans determined and how are they integrated into local service delivery? When do joint and specialised commissioning fit into this phase and in what circumstances are they appropriate. Understand how commissioners identify and manage risks in their planning and procurement design? Explore the complexities of market engagement and contracting from a plurality of providers to encourage provider development and increased choice.
Stage Three - Management
The final stage of the commissioning cycle determines the organisational capabilities required to deliver the strategic commissioning plan and meet local needs. Recognising any gaps and identifying how they can be filled is crucial at this point. Learn how to manage demand and align it to service planning. Understand what governance arrangements need to be in place to carry out ongoing monitoring and management of performance, ensure that the commissioning plan is on-track for delivery, and the implications should it not be.
Question and answer session
Senior Representative, Improvement Foundation
Close of seminar
Senior Representative, Improvement Foundation

