Commissioning of Self-Management Support for people with long-term conditions

The problem:
Self-management support (Self-MS) is an essential element of long-term condition management. NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are responsible for commissioning services that are sensitive to their local population, are integrated and link into patient’s everyday lives.

The solution:

We analysed CCGs’ written forward plans; held interviews with commissioners and recruited Patient/public representatives as Service User Researchers to observe CCG board meetings. The focus was how CCGs communicate with and engage their local population. 

Outcomes:
• Commissioning SMS services is not being influenced by local drivers as there is ineffective involvement of patients and the public
• The benefits of collaboration with patients and the public was demonstrated
• Provides evidence for how Patient and Public Involvement is used or not in the commissioning of Self-MS services for Long Term Conditions.
• Highlights the gaps present and what CCGs can target to begin to achieve their 5-year plans.
• The Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership (HQIP) have used this as a case study for quality improvement in healthcare.