Government sets out new pledge to ‘streamline’ targets in primary care

A new pledge to streamline targets in primary care was made two days ago at the NHS Confed Expo where the government set out proposals for developing the new integrated care systems

The commitment was made in response to two investigations into the new systems designed to integrate health services under a single organisation. The House of Commons health committee conducted one investigation, while the government commissioned the second investigation led by former Labour health secretary Patricia Hewitt.

Hewitt proposed a revamp of the GP primary care contract through a “national partnership group.” In response, the government stated its intention to engage with the medical profession, patients, and other stakeholders over the next year to discuss the future of primary care.

Additionally, the government pledged to provide “greater certainty” regarding budgets. The reports criticised the allocation of funds through small in-year “pots.” The government committed to ensuring that the use of these pots is reported proportionately.

Steve Brine MP, chair of the health committee, expressed concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the objectives of the integrated care systems. He also expressed disappointment that there was no agreement to include public health representatives on the boards, stating that this would hinder measuring success and ensuring accountability in the future.

Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the NHS Confederation, welcomed the agreement to reduce the number of national targets imposed on integrated care systems, which would empower ICS leaders to focus on local priorities. He urged prompt action on this front, emphasising the importance of a preventive approach to reduce overall demand on the healthcare system.

Helen Whately, the minister for care, highlighted the positive impact already being made by integrated care systems, bringing together local NHS organisations, social care, and the voluntary sector. She acknowledged the benefits of coordinated care for patients and stated that the actions the government plans to take, such as reducing administrative burdens on local systems, will complement the excellent work already being done by ICSs.