13.04.18
NHSCC and LGA launch joint tool to support integrated commissioning
A new tool for CCGs and councils to support improving outcomes through integrated commissioning has been unveiled yesterday.
The ‘Integrated commissioning for better outcomes framework 2018’ (ICBO) has been developed from the ‘Commissioning for better outcomes framework 2015,’ and has been updated in order to reflect the changing commissioning landscape.
A joint project between the Local Government Association and NHS Clinical Commissioners (NHSCC), the framework was developed in consultation with NHS and local authority commissioners, and tested in workshops across seven NHS/council areas.
NHSCC says that the ICBO standards will support local heath and care economies to strengthen their integrated commissioning for the benefit of local people.
The framework covers four areas:
- Building the foundations;
- Taking a person-centred, place-based and outcome-focused approach;
- Shaping provision to support people, places and populations;
- Continuously raising the ambition.
It is anticipated that the standards will support continuous improvement, and it can be used to support cross-organisational reflection and dialogue on how well integration in local commissioning arrangements are working.
They are also expected to be used as a benchmarking diagnostic tool in self-assessment by system partners, and in peer-to-peer reviews or peer challenges to promote sector-led improvement.
Although the standards are primarily aimed at commissioners in adult social care and the NHS, it is hoped that service providers, those with personal budgets, and other stakeholders will be engaged.
Julie Wood, chief executive of NHSCC, and Sarah Pickup, deputy chief executive of LGA, said: “We hope that ICBO will be a really useful tool for local areas to use to support continuous improvement in integrated commissioning in order to achieve the best possible outcomes for local people.”
The work was funded by the Department of Health and Social Care as part of the health improvement programme.
Top image: Matthias Zomer
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