The main function of NHS Somerset is to commission high quality health services to meet the needs of the population of Somerset, working with partner organisations in the NHS, local authorities and the voluntary sector.
Strategic Framework for Improving Health 2010/11 - 2014/15
The Strategic Framework for Improving Health 2010/11 - 2014/15 (available by clicking here), is a refresh of the strategy published last year. This has been revised in the light of the changing financial outlook, the NHS Next Stage Review 'High Quality Care for All', the Transforming Community Services programme and feedback received from the first year of the World Class Commissioning assurance process. The service and financial plans within the Strategic Framework demonstrate how we are going to secure world class services for the population of Somerset. The strategy informs the Trust’s investment decisions and demonstrates that as an organisation we are assessing the needs of the population of Somerset, and commissioning innovative services that will drive improvements in health outcomes.
The strategy is based on three key objectives:
The implementation of the Strategic Framework for Improving Health 2010/11 - 2014/15 is supported by the Organisational Development Plan(available by clicking here).
Commissioning is the process through which Primary Care Trusts assess the needs of their population, secure best value and deliver improvements in health and care services to meet local needs.
Through World Class Commissioning NHS Somerset is working closely with partners, patients, clinicians and providers to transform the way services are commissioned, leading to improved health outcomes and reduction in health inequalities, adding life to years and years to life. To learn more about World Class Commissioning in Somerset click here.
NHS Somerset believes that working in partnership is key to our objective of delivering high quality health and social care services to the local population. There are many joint planning and commissioning arrangements, along with a number of strategic partnerships. Stakeholder consultation and public engagement have an important role in all service developments. To learn more about how we work in partnership in Somerset click here.
On occasions NHS Somerset undertakes procurement processes to commission services from NHS, private and voluntary healthcare providers. NHS Somerset carries out competitive procurement processes to ensure we commission services that meet the needs of the population of Somerset, are of high quality and provides value for money. NHS Somerset will involve patients, carers and members of the public in the procurement process where appropriate.
NHS Somerset is currently undertaking the procurement of Shepton Mallet NHS Treatment Centre. For further details please see the Shepton Mallet NHS Treatment Centre Procurement page.
