Important LMC Briefing on the London PMS Review
In the knowledge that PMS contract reviews must take place before April 2016 (see NHSE letters of February 2014 and September 2014), Londonwide LMCs have sought to engage with NHSE London on their approach and ability to complete the reviews across London within this time frame. This briefing is our understanding of the current position and the action we believe PMS practices should be taking.
Practices can be assured that when Londonwide LMCs have any further information this will be shared as soon as possible.
1. Current position:
- NHSE London are still developing “The London approach to PMS contract reviews”, with a further version expected next week.
- A national PMS contract for essential and additional services will be offered across London.
- Premium funding released from existing PMS contracts must be re-invested in general practice, however the mechanism and the decision making process is yet unclear.
- The timeframe for completion is 1 April 2016 and appears to be non-negotiable.
- NHSE London have recognised that some practices may need transitional funding, but again, the criteria and process is unclear.
- NHSE London are currently in discussion with CCGs to explore a finally agreed approach.
2. Current concerns and risks:
- The timeframe of 1 April 2016 is extremely challenging.
- To date, there is little evidence that appropriate consultation with Londonwide LMCs has been undertaken.
- A full risk assessment can only be undertaken once the final approach has been issued.
3. LMC/Practice action:
- Ongoing discussions with David Sturgeon, Director of Primary Care Commissioning to clarify issues and concerns.
- Provide sector based communications to ensure all practices have access to appropriate current information and local support.
- Provide communication and media support to practices in engaging with patients, public, local media and leading local politicians.
- Practices should assess the minimum income necessary to remain viable under a new PMS contract and be able to quantify existing 'premium funded services'. Please see our note about the submission of information.
4. Contract facts:
- The ability for PMS contract holders to revert to GMS contracts is still available, however practices would need to notify NHSEL in writing by 1 January 2016.
- NHS Health Body Status - Practices need to opt out of NHS Health Body Status by notifying NHSEL as soon as possible - before the review begins. Further details on what practices should do can be found here.
- An Act of Parliament in 2010 allows NHSE to terminate any PMS contract, giving six months' notice, without cause. Termination of contract notices would need to be issued by 1 October 2015 if they were to be implemented for non-compliant practices by 1 April 2016.
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