Commissioning

Support offered for CCGs working with CSS

Clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) need to understand the range of options available to them to achieve an acceptable balance between the customer and supplier when developing effective relationships with commissioning support services (CSS).

NHS Clinical Commissioners (NHSCC) has published a report, jointly produced with the University of Birmingham’s Health Service Management Centre, to support CCGs in this development. 

The report details seven key themes CCGs should consider: relationship development; leadership and authority; customer/supplier models; using clinical expertise; learning from others; role of rescue; and governance mandate. 

The role of the wider clinical team can also be utilised to improve relationships between the two organisations, the report suggests. CCGs must also be aware of what services are available and needed in their local areas. 

Dr Charles Alessi, interim chairman of the NHSCC called this relationship “a critical issue for CCGs and CSSs”. 

He said: “It is of fundamental importance that CCGs are fully aware locally of their specific needs before deciding upon any commissioning support arrangements. It is of equal importance that they are alert to all the consequential implications of the decisions they are taking.” 

Dr Alessi also emphasised the importance of a cultural change, for clinicians to determine their requirements and maintain constructive relationships. 

Interim commissioning development director of the NHSCC, Julie Wood, said: “It is absolutely crucial that clinical commissioners receive the support they need to create a robust strategy for their work with commissioning support services.” 

She suggested CCGs need more clarity on the options available to them in terms of CSSs as well as access to a range of practical support. 

Dame Barbara Hakin, national director of commissioning development, said: “There is still a great deal of work to do to ensure that clinical commissioners have all the support they need and we have used the insights from this report to inform the next phase of the NHS Commissioning Board Authority’s programme of practical, targeted CCG and CSU development support over the coming months.” 

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