Important Londonwide CEO message number 20 - 8 September 2009
Today’s briefing includes updates on the following:
- Command and control arrangements
- Payments for H1N1 vaccinations
- BMJ patient leaflets on swine flu
1. Command and control arrangements
Should there be a significant increase in the number of H1N1 flu cases during the coming weeks, there may be a requirement to move to ‘command and control’ arrangements as set out in the joint GPC/NHSE guidance.
Negotiations at UK level on the detail of how the ‘command and control’ model will work in practice are still ongoing. The end result will be the production of a pandemic flu SFE which may be introduced at individual PCT level if and when this is required.
Under this model it is not the intention that PCTs will dictate how GP practices will provide care to patients or manage their workload. Practices may, for example, be requested to work outside normal contracted hours or assist other practices. It is expected that PCTs and LMCs will reach agreement on the detail of how the command and control measures will be introduced for the PCT area.
2. Payments for H1N1 vaccinations
National negotiations continue about payments to practices for H1N1 vaccinations. We will keep you informed of any developments.
In the meantime, some PCTs and LMCs are working on existing or new LESs (local enhanced services) to provide payment to practices that is not less than the agreed item of service fee.
3. BMJ patient leaflets on swine flu
The BMJ group has published a patient leaflet on swine flu which practices can print out and give to patients.