NHS primary care trust

NHS Primary Care Trust (PCT) was a type of National Health Service trust, part of the National Health Service in England. PCTs were largely administrative bodies, responsible for commissioning primary, community and secondary health services from providers.

History

NHS Primary Care Trusts were established in 2002, replacing Health Authorities. By 2006, they were responsible for 80% of the total NHS budget. However, in 2010, the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition government announced plans to abolish PCTs, with their work taken over by Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs). The change was implemented by the Health and Social Care Act 2012.

Functions

The main function of PCTs was to commission health services. This included hospital care, rehabilitation, most community services, and mental health services. They also provided some services directly, including community hospitals and services provided through GP practices.

Structure

Each PCT was managed by a board of executives and non-executives, including a chief executive. The board was responsible for ensuring that the PCT met its obligations and performed effectively.

See also

• National Health Service (England)
• Healthcare in the United Kingdom
• Clinical Commissioning Group

References

NHS primary care trust Resources
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