White Papers

World-class commissioning – gateway to a healthier nation

November 2007

What is world-class commissioning? What is needed to achieve it? And what are the benefits? These are some of the questions that this white paper aims to address. We offer up our own definition and discuss the wonderful possibilities that world-class commissioning can realise.

Effective commissioning: Transforming PCTs into champions of health and healthcare

June 2007

In this paper we explore the opportunities created by commissioning to champion a more responsive, patient-centred healthcare system. We discuss the importance of effective commissioning and the key challenges facing PCTs; and examine how PCTs can identify effective systems of commissioning and ultimately provide a better experience of care for patients.

How the use of data will affect NHS Primary Care Trust performance

April 2007

In this paper, we explore the significance of data-driven knowledge within the commissioning process. We illustrate how data collection and management will help commissioners make informed decisions that will ultimately improve the nation’s health and reduce the costs of delivering care.

When patients become consumers: the new challenge for the NHS

March 2007

In this paper we consider what will happen as people become real consumers of healthcare. We look at how choice is expressed in the US healthcare system and we explore some of the potential ways PCTs can bring informed patient choice – and consumer satisfaction – into their services.