NHSCB to adjust GP targets

CCGs in poorer areas of the country will have their targets adjusted to reflect the demographic of their patients, the NHS Commissioning Board (NHSCB) has said.

The decision comes after NICE published its recommended indicators for inclusion in the NHS Commissioning Outcomes Framework (COF) – the system by which GPs will be assessed and financially rewarded.

A spokesperson for the NHSCB said that a “robust approach to case-mix adjustment will be needed”.

The BMA backed the proposal and called for potential indicators to be piloted across the country in order not to discriminate against GPs based in poorer areas.

Dr Mary-Louise Irvine, BMA Council member, said that anything that “unfairly discriminates” GPs who need resources the most should be tested first. “If my resources are shrunk it’s more difficult to deliver good care,” said the south-east London GP. “I think the indicators should be piloted and evaluated to get them right.”

Indicators in the COF include reducing emergency admissions and providing care for stroke patients, plus ones for COPD, maternal care and access to mental health services.