Clinical Commissioning Group

Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG)

A Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is a type of NHS organization in England that is responsible for planning and commissioning health care services for their local area. CCGs were established by the Health and Social Care Act 2012 and became operational on 1 April 2013, replacing the previous Primary Care Trusts (PCTs).

Structure and Governance

CCGs are clinically led statutory NHS bodies responsible for the planning and commissioning of health care services for their local area. They are composed of local General Practitioners (GPs), other clinicians, and lay members. Each CCG is responsible for a specific geographical area and is accountable to the NHS England.

Membership

CCGs are made up of member GP practices. The membership model ensures that local clinicians are at the heart of the decision-making process, allowing for a more tailored approach to the needs of the local population.

Governing Body

Each CCG has a governing body that includes:

• A Chair (usually a GP)
• A Chief Officer (Accountable Officer)
• A Chief Finance Officer
• Lay members
• Other clinical representatives

Functions and Responsibilities

CCGs are responsible for commissioning the following services:

• Elective hospital care
• Rehabilitation care
• Urgent and emergency care
• Most community health services
• Mental health services
• Learning disability services

CCGs work closely with local authorities and other partners to ensure that health and social care services are integrated and meet the needs of the local population.

Funding

CCGs receive a budget from NHS England, which is allocated based on the needs of the local population. This budget is used to commission services from a range of providers, including NHS trusts, private sector providers, and voluntary organizations.

Challenges

CCGs face several challenges, including:

• Managing financial constraints while meeting the increasing demand for services.
• Ensuring quality and safety in the services they commission.
• Integrating health and social care services to provide seamless care for patients.

Future Developments

The role of CCGs is evolving as the NHS moves towards more integrated care systems (ICSs). ICSs aim to bring together NHS providers, commissioners, and local authorities to plan and deliver services in a more coordinated way.

See Also

• NHS England
• Primary Care Trust
• Integrated Care System

References

• "Health and Social Care Act 2012." Legislation.gov.uk.
• "Clinical Commissioning Groups." NHS England.