A federation of GP practices has agreed a ‘pioneering’ payment-by-results contract with local commissioners to provide diabetes services.
Under the terms of the contract – agreed between the Suffolk GP Federation not-for-profit community interest company and North East Essex – 25% of the federation’s income will be dependent on performance on aspects such as HbA1c test results and cholesterol levels.
Payment will also be part-dependent on the completion of annual reviews and ensuring that newly diagnosed patients receive education about their condition.
The CCG believes the scheme will help reduce the numbers of patients who need hospital admission.
Patients and healthcare professionals will be consulted about the contract plans before they are finalised, ahead of a service launch in April 2014.
Dr Tim Reed, chair of Suffolk GP Federation, said: ‘This is a pioneering contract both in terms of payment by results and the way it provides an integrated approach for patients, who will find it easier to book and attend their diabetes appointments by using a single point of contact and by assessing higher-level care locally to where they live. To achieve this we will be working very closely with all the GP practices in the Colchester and Tendring areas, and with Colchester Hospital, who will provide specialist care and clinics for those with complex needs.’
The Diabetes UK charity, which was consulted on the plans, is supportive of the payments system. Its regional manager Sharon Roberts said: ‘We have seen a very thorough approach to engaging people in the improvement of their healthcare services.’
