Commissioning Independent Providers in Stroke Mary Pointer North East London Cardiac and Stroke Network 20 th March 2009

 2002 DoH forward planning - capacity gaps  Gaps greater than planned NHS capacity  Initial procurement exercise  2005 “Phase Two” Independent Sector Procurement Programme  What about stroke? ◦ National Stroke Strategy 2007 ◦ RCP Stroke Guidelines 2008 Background…

What are the benefits?  Competition  Value for money  Capacity  Responsiveness  Quality of service  Complement existing NHS services

…and the challenges?  Stroke Rehabilitation – complex ◦ Different needs at different times ◦ Not a simple package of care ◦ “Cherry-picking” simpler aspects  Stroke Pathways - “seamless” transition ◦ Multi-agency ◦ Long term support ◦ Continuity of care

 Recruitment of stroke specialists  Maintaining and developing high standards of care - evidence based practice service  Local knowledge and resources

Key considerations  Engage with local service providers (NHS, charities, voluntary services)  Seek guidance from Stroke Networks  Know the need of the local population – consult stroke survivors and service users  Clinical standards – consult clinical specialists  Have a clear service specification  Ensure inclusion of performance monitoring/service evaluation

 National Stroke Strategy (Dept of Health) December 2007  Independent Sector Treatment Centres (Dept of Health) February 2006  ISTC Manual DH 2006  National Clinical Guideline for Stroke Royal College of Physicians 2008