The recently released Audit Commissioning Report gave the PCT a score of 3 out of 4 in managing finance. This is the financial element of the Care Quality Commission’s annual health check rating. The score 3 for managing finance gives NHS Mid Essex, the PCT responsible for health services across central Essex, improved ratings of ‘good’ for use of resources. The other element of the annual health check rating –on quality of services—is expected later this month.
The rating shows NHS Mid Essex is making the best use of available resources when buying local health services.
The PCT’s health check performance has continually improved since the ratings were launched three years ago. In 2006/07 it received a “weak” rating in both managing resources and quality of services and last year it received “fair” on both counts.
NHS Mid Essex’s Director, Finance and Performance, Adrian Marr said, “We are absolutely delighted at the results. This is a tremendous achievement for us as the assessment was more demanding this year. This is the highest rating any PCT in the country has received and it’s great to be among the top performers. With a ‘good’ rating in the financial element of the health check rating, we hope to receive an improved rating on quality of our services as well.’’
The Audit Commission is an independent watchdog, driving economy, efficiency and effectiveness in local public services to deliver better outcomes for everyone.
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Notes to editors
1. NHS Mid Essex was established in 2006 and commissions health services for people living in Chelmsford, Braintree, Maldon, Witham, Halstead and surrounding areas. We cover an area of approximately 400 square miles and serve over 370,000 people. The PCT oversees:
• 217 GPs based in 69 practices:
• 57 pharmacists,
• 130 dentists (49 surgeries) and
• 63 opticians.
To find out more visit www.midessex.nhs.uk
2. In September 2008 Mid Essex PCT changed its name to NHS Mid Essex. Still legally known as Mid Essex PCT, our new identity reflects the repositioning of PCTs as the local leaders of the NHS. The new identity format was subject to national consultation and gave all PCTs the option to choose to present themselves in a way which more fully reflects their position as local leaders of the NHS.
For further information please contact: Archana Sharma, Communications Officer on 01245 398713