Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has today published its constitution which describes how the new organisation intends to operate as it prepares to formally take on its responsibilities from 1 April 2013.
The CCG, a membership organisation of local GP practices, will take over from NHS Gloucestershire next year and will be responsible for buying (commissioning) health services to meet the needs of local people.
CCG members will also bring their clinical knowledge of patient care to look at how services are planned and how the patient’s journey through care can be improved.
All 85 member GP practices have now signed up to the Gloucestershire CCG constitution which Clinical Chair and local GP, Dr Helen Miller says ‘demonstrates real unity of purpose’.
Dr Miller added:
“This document is extremely strong and clear in the areas of accountability, transparency – including transparency in procurement, public engagement and decision making.”
“Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group is led by experienced healthcare professionals who are passionate about securing the highest quality NHS services for local people.”
Deputy Clinical Chair and local GP, Dr Andy Seymour said:
“In developing our constitution, we have carried out a comprehensive consultation exercise with member practices, the Local Medical Committee and community partners.”
Accountable Officer for Gloucestershire CCG, Mary Hutton said:
“We are very confident that our constitution contains appropriate references and safeguards to support how our work is carried out on behalf of the people of Gloucestershire.”