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What does locality commissioning in Avon offer? Retrospective descriptive evaluation
1Department of Public Health Medicine, Avon Health Authority, Bristol.
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|April 26, 1997
Summary
Locality commissioning in Avon initiated service changes with minimal funding, impacting primary mental health and chronic disease care. General practitioners sought greater policy and financial support for future developments.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Primary Care Management
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Locality commissioning was implemented in Avon to improve healthcare services.
- The study examines the initial impact, costs, and attitudes towards this new model.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the impact of locality commissioning in Avon.
- To analyze the direct costs associated with the scheme.
- To understand participants' attitudes towards locality commissioning.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective description of the locality commissioning program.
- Surveys and interviews with general practitioners and health authority staff.
- Analysis of locality initiatives, perceived influence, and management costs.
Main Results:
- Twenty initiatives altered patient services, focusing on primary mental health, nurse specialists, and clinical guidelines.
- Localities had more influence on health authorities and consultants than other organizations.
- The scheme cost 6p per capita, with 82% of practices involved.
Conclusions:
- Locality commissioning selectively changed services with limited funding and no budget delegation.
- General practitioners require enhanced policy and financial support.
- Future development necessitates evidence on costs, benefits, and limitations.