New health group ready to take over

WARRINGTON Clinical Commissioning Group – the new GP-led organisation which is taking over health services in the borough – is now officially ready to oversee and manage the provision of healthcare services for local people.
This follows receipt of formal authorisation from the NHS Commissioning Board. The notification states that Warrington is one of only nine areas to receive full authorisation with no conditions attached and no further support needed from the Commissioning Board.
This means Warrington CCG has now been authorised and established, ready to take on its statutory role of commissioning health services for local communities from April.
Dr Andy Davies (pictured), chairman of Warrington CCG, said: “This is fantastic news and the best possible outcome for Warrington. It’s testament to everyone’s hard work over the last 18 months and we couldn’t have achieved full authorisation without the help and support of our member GP practices and local partners.
“This is just the beginning. There is a way to go to make Warrington healthcare fit for the future, but we’re hitting the ground running and I’m very hopeful about the future.”
Dr Sarah Baker, chief clinical officer at Warrington CCG, said: “All the healthcare organisations in Warrington firmly believe in the need for change and the move towards focussing on prevention and early diagnosis to help people stay healthier for longer.
“With their support, we’ve already implemented some positive changes, but with this full authority, now we can really start to make progress to improve the quality and choice of hospital, community and mental health services for the population of Warrington.
“Patient experience is incredibly important and through continuous engagement with and involvement of local people we will make sure we spend our budget wisely and commission services that meet people’s needs.”
The announcement comes after a rigorous five-month assessment, in which the organisation has proved itself capable of effectively managing and delivering positive health outcomes for the local community.