MP raises the issue of commissioning integrated services
At Health questions this week, John Baron MP question Paul Bustow MP, Minister for Care Services, on the issue of commissioning integrated cancer services, such as radiotherapy which take place across consortia boundaries. It is vital that sufficient safeguards are in place to ensure effective commissioning of these services for patients.
John asked:
“How will the authorisation process for GP consortia ensure effective commissioning of those cancer services that span consortia boundaries, such as radiotherapy?”
The Minister replied by saying that the pause in the passage of the Health and Social Care Bill is being used to ensure that GP consortia can collaborate on issues where they need to commission for larger populations as well as highlighting the strengthened role that Cancer Networks will play in ensuring this happens.
John said afterwards:
“It is vital that once consortia commissioning has taken effect, those services such as radiotherapy which span consortia boundaries are commissioned effectively. The National Commissioning Board will take responsibility for commissioning treatments for rarer cancers but for services like radiotherapy, consortia will have to come together and it is vital this takes place effectively.”
“Thankfully the Government has committed to funding Cancer Networks to 2013 and this will ensure a certain degree of continuity. They will prove invaluable in ensuring effective commissioning.”
Notes to Editors
- John’s question and the Government’s response can be found at http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm110607/debtext/110607-0001.htm#11060729000004
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