Changes are needed to NHS commissioning plans say MPs

Published 5 April 2011

The Health Select Committee has stated that the government’s plans to reform NHS commissioning need to be significantly changed according to a report, 'Commissioning: further issues', published today.

The Committee proposes that representatives of nurses, hospital doctors, social care, public health experts and local communities should all be involved as decision makers alongside GPs in NHS commissioning.

Alzheimer's Society comment,

'We support the Committee's view that there needs to be better joined up working between health and social care. People with dementia can fall through the cracks. It is vitally important for the voice of people with dementia to be involved in decisions about the commissioning of both health and social care services.

'Local decision making has the ability to transform dementia care but only if the government ensures that commissioners are held to account. Any changes to the way the NHS functions must consider the needs of people with dementia and their carers. A million people will be living with dementia in 2021.'

Jeremy Hughes
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society