When Public Health transferred to the Council, the existing PCT contracts held with the third sector, GPs and pharmacies were reviewed and new 3 year contracts were awarded, which expire on 31st March 2017. Since the transfer, Public Health has been undertaking a structured approach to re-commissioning public health services to ensure a high quality and value for money solutions are achieved.
This decision is for the direct award of new interim contracts to existing third sector, pharmacy and GP providers from 1st April 2017 to maintain service continuity and provide additional time for Public Health to participate in their strategic reviews. The contracts with third sector organisations deliver a range of services including women’s, older people, street workers, travellers and for public mental health. The GP and pharmacy contracts provide locally enhanced services (LESs) to directly support people with their substance misuse and sexual health.
This request to directly enter into interim contracts with existing third sector, GP and pharmacy providers of these Public Health services will be for the legth required to complete the review and completed in accordance with Contracts Procedure Rules 8.1, 8.2, 9.1 and 9.2.