Strategic commissioning for older people

Whole system strategic commissioning for older people is undeveloped; however it is now rising up the agenda. This paper looks first at the development of a systematic approach to strategic commissioning. It then goes on to examine what is happening on the ground to develop a whole system approach to strategic change, particularly across social care, healthcare and housing, but also linked to a wider wellbeing approach. Finally, it examines the structures and processes that are being developed to support whole system strategic commissioning.

Journal of Care Services Management, January 2008, vol. 2, no. 2, p. 154-166

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CRC Commissioning services to reduce drug related deaths

Over the last ten years, there has been increasing concern at the rising numbers of preventable drug related deaths. Many drug-related deaths can be prevented by commissioning and providing a baseline of quality services that are evidence-based and responsive to local need. The aim is to provide treatment through integrated care pathways across all four treatment tiers that are as seamless as possible, as indicated in Models of care (NTA 2002). The establishment of effective interfaces between services across all tiers of service provision requires communication and collaboration between services. Central to this are joint commissioning of services, common assessment /referral protocols that are appropriate to each tier and the establishment of robust service level agreements.

(Published February 2007, 12 pages)

The Commissioning Friend for Mental Health Services

This Guide to Commissioning Mental Health Services is the second in a series of guides developed by the National Primary and Care Trust Development Programme (NatPaCT) to assist Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) and Local Authorities in the vital role leading ‘Whole System Commissioning’ of health and social care. The structure and content has also been informed by a wealth of input from the National Institute for Mental Health in England (NIMHE) whose aim is to improve the quality of life for people of all ages who experience mental distress. This Guide has been designed to support PCTs and Local Authorities in understanding how to use their commissioning activities as a key part of improving the mental health of the communities they serve.

(Published January 2005, 162 pages)