[Katie Benton]

Sorry if this question has been asked before, but an interesting case has come up locally, but not in our locality, which has resulted in three services being highlighted to be opened up to new (and possibly non-NHS) providers under AQP. We were not involved in the selection of these services.

We understand from our briefs on AQP that each PCT cluster has been asked to identify three areas that would benefit from greater choice being open to patients. In April 2012 the PCT's are due to begin the implementation of offering such wider services.

We are treating the proposals like any other inquiry we may receive that may or may not end up being a substantial change in service (i.e. planning on asking the commissioner what services are being proposed, the numbers of patients being affected, q's around performance, 4 tests and engagement/involvement of local people), but wondered if anyone else had treated such cases differently? I know that the key principles of an AQP approach in the operational guidance include that 'commissioners set local pathways and referral protocols which providers must accept', but it makes no reference to how scrutiny might relate to these.

Any thoughts are appreciated, especially (but not exclusively!) Tim and Ed!

[Graham Spencer]

Morning Katie,

From the briefings the Committe here have received (and my understanding of AQP) the development of the pathway including public/patient involvement has been undertaken at a national level with different PCT clusters and/or Providers being involved in the development. Ultimately this means that anyone tendering for an AQP of say Audiology services will have a 'national' standard to tender for with some local variations added in by the Commissioner.

For example here in Derbyshire the Community Health Service have been involved in developing the pathway for Podiatry services.

The role, therefore, of HOScs i feel should be to ensure that Commissioners are choosing the correct services to go to AQP and ensuring that local people have been involved in those decisions where appropriate to do so. I'm not sure what influence a HOSC can have on the development of the pathway for AQP service.

I hope that makes sense - would also like to hear from others to make sure i've understood the process correctly as well!!