Primary Care Networks (PCN) update – July 2019
The start of this month saw the deadline for primary care networks to be finalised with CCGs. There have been a number of developments since our last newsletter:
PCN process in London
The process of forming PCNs in London is nearly complete, save for a couple of issues. We know that despite local requests, the 30,000 “hard bottom” limit on PCN patient numbers is not open to variation/ flex in Greater London. A small number of PCNs are yet to have their configurations confirmed, due to unaligned practices, and there are some ongoing queries regarding the contractual variation mechanism for delivering the DES. Finally, we are still awaiting the template data sharing agreement.
Clinical Director support
We are about to write to PCN Clinical Directors to offer continued LMC help with the development of their PCNs. In particular, with support on reviewing local contract offers that are being developed as additions to the DES prior to being signed. We will continue to work with commissioners to ensure that any ‘offer’ to PCNs of additional requirements via an extension to the DES do not expose the PCNs, and their member practices, to unacceptable risk; and that any local contract is safe, deliverable, and sufficiently funded. The LMC will also continue to support practices and networks.
Updated PCN Model Schedules
We continue to look at our PCN Model Schedules and listen to queries, and the latest revisions are intended to further help PCNs develop tailored Schedules. This updated version has an additional guide on the appointment and election of the Clinical Director and advice on voting methods and dispute resolution. It is up to each PCN to take appropriate legal and other relevant specialist advice to ensure the schedules are fit for individual needs. This is an iterative process and changes can be made to Schedules after this date, with the agreement of Members.
We have also produced the next in our series of Keep It Simple guides, which covers the timeline of PCNs over the next nine months.
Download the Model Schedules and our Keep It Simple guides from our dedicated GP Contract page.
PCN Accelerators scrapped
NHS England has formally scrapped its plans to fund select PCNs to act as accelerator sites to evaluate the best methods of quickly developing PCNs. This money will instead be rolled into STP level funds which have already been earmarked for supporting PCN development, with funding allocated based on STP patient populations.
Last updated : 02 Aug 2019Seasonal Flu Campaign 2020-2021 (07 Sep 2020)
In view of the risk of co-circulation of seasonal flu and Covid-19 this winter, the 2020/21 national flu campaign will be essential in protecting our vulnerable patients and reducing clinical...Tips of the month August 2020 (19 Aug 2020)
We provide weekly tips based on common queries which come through to us from London GPs and practice teams. These are shared via social media and collated for...Summary for General Practices - Sir Simon Stevens’ Phase 3 NHS Response Covid-19 Letter (31 July 2020) (19 Aug 2020)
The letter is written to CEOs of trusts and foundation trusts, CCG accountable officers, GP practices and PCNs, community health providers and NHS 111. It sets out the ‘third...Londonwide LMCs' August 2020 Newsletter (19 Aug 2020)
...Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) phase 4 roll out (18 Aug 2020)
Phase 4 of the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) will be enabled automatically for all TPP SystmOne and EMIS Web practices that use EPS (including dispensing practices) from 7 September 2020....Accessibility requirements for your website – deadline 23 September 2020 (18 Aug 2020)
All practices have a legal duty to make sure their websites meet accessibility requirements by 23 September 2020. The accessibility regulations aim to ensure online public services are...GP Professional Support Network now offering online help for Coronavirus and other pressures (03 Aug 2020)
Londonwide LMCs' new GP Professional Support Network provides a single point of online access to match GPs with the most appropriate form of professional support...Patient face covering exemptions (23 Jul 2020)
From Friday 24 July people are required to wear face-coverings in several environments including public transport, shops and supermarkets, practices may get an increase in requests from patients to provide exemption letters....Londonwide LMCs' July 2020 Newsletter (23 Jul 2020)
Inclusivity and diversity in general practice (22 Jul 2020)
The disproportionate mortality rate from coronavirus in Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities, as reported by Public Health England, alongside international events and awareness protests, have seen a...Guidance
We provide expert guidance for practices in our guidance section, as well as an archive of other materials you may find useful.
GP Support
Contact our GP Support team if you need help or advice.
The team provide professional and pastoral support to GPs and practice teams on a broad range of issues.