NHS Redditch and Bromsgrove CCG, NHS South Worcestershire CCG, NHS Wyre Forest CCG, are seeking to jointly procure a Consultant-Led Community Dermatology for the local health population of Worcestershire.
National guidance for healthcare commissioners regarding dermatology services states that appropriate levels of care should be commissioned to provide integrated community and acute levels of service, and that some patients may be seen in ‘intermediate-care’ clinics staffed by healthcare professionals working in community settings. Such clinics may be staffed by consultant dermatologists, specialty and associate doctors, general practitioners with special interests or specialist dermatology nurses, but new services should be developed in partnership with secondary care.
The above named commissioning bodies are seeking to jointly procure a community dermatology service which shall deliver a high-quality, consultant-led service for all patients across Worcestershire in community settings. This will enable patients to receive care closer to home which will improve patient access and enhance patient experience.
A key aim of the new service shall be to ensure the future provision of high quality, effective care that is patient focused and achieved through collaborative and multi-disciplinary working across Worcestershire.
The Worcestershire Consultant-Led Community Dermatology Service shall work in close collaboration with secondary care providers and GP colleagues; excellent communications between providers will support delivery. Working with GP colleagues shall help to increase knowledge and confidence for further management of long-term conditions in primary care.
The Worcestershire Consultant-Led Community Dermatology Service shall be provided in a minimum of three locations across Worcestershire, all 3 locations must be capable of providing all elements of the service. The 3 locations will provide equitable access for patients across Worcestershire. There should be a key emphasis on care provided from a community-based clinic setting. The service shall include a full Tele-dermatology service i.e. where it is offered as an alternative for a face-face appointment.
Currently most secondary dermatological care is provided by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust (WAHT) outpatients, light therapies and some surgery is based at Kidderminster Treatment Centre; further outpatients, complex surgery and inpatient beds are based at Worcester Hospital. In addition, patients may choose to access dermatological services at other NHS Trusts, under Patient Choice.
The commissioning bodies intend to award one contract. The contract duration shall be two (2) years, with the option to extend for a further one (1) year, subject to agreement. The new service must commence on the 1.4.2020. NHS standard terms and conditions shall apply.
The affordability threshold set by the CCGs is 1 104 088,00 GBP for the initial 2-year contract period. The estimated total lifetime cost of the contract should the optional extension be used is 1 656 132,00 GBP. Please note this will be a block contract with annual reviews.