Transition to Integrated Care Systems

24 May 2022

The Health and Social care Bill has completed its journey through parliament and Integrated Care Systems with their respective boards (ICBs) will take legal responsibilities for local health systems on the 1st July 2022.

PES has been monitoring the planned spatial level of commissioning for ICS’ across our service areas. Currently this is likely to fall into one of several categories. It has become apparent that due to the complexity of the current NHS reorganisation, most systems are opting to ensure as much continuity as possible with a lift and shift approach; with transformation of the spatial level of commissioning (aka geographical area within system) likely to be a further development in the 22-23 / 23-24.

Currently, all PES CCG contracts are expected to transition to the ICB. However, current geographical restrictions on services within the new ICBs (i.e. CCG geography – to be called ‘Place’ in the arrangements) will remain; where they are not aligned with the new ICB geography.

PES continue to actively engage with systems with the support of LOCs to ensure we are as well informed as possible and influencing future direction to support scaling up of services.

In preparation for the coming changes the following key actions are being undertaken by PES:

• Work with commissioners to understand their plans for 1st July 2022 and
  ambitions for 1st April 2023.
• Preparation for changes in invoicing to avoid/minimise any potential disruption to payment processes and timescales.

PES is working closely with all stakeholders on these processes to ensure as smooth a transition as possible with a changing and complex environment.

Dharmesh Patel, Chief Executive Officer said:

“We look forward to the potential scaling up of contracts and services that the implementation of the new Integrated Care systems should enable. It is vital that we ensure the continuity and where possible expansion of the eye care services that are delivered by primary care optometry practices for the benefit of patients during the transition and beyond. This is more important now more than ever with the substantival secondary care backlogs that have developed within local systems across England.”

We will keep LOCs updated on progress and potential impact on contracts and delivery in your respective areas.