What is the commissioning cycle?

The commissioning cycle includes the development, review and approval of three plans:

• The strategic commissioning plan establishes the direction and priorities for at least the next 5 years for the PCT. It is developed every 3 years and updated annually.
• The operating plan sets out how the PCT plans to achieve the health outcomes and financial goals set out in the strategic commissioning plan. It includes targets, financial and activity schedules and action plans. It is developed annually.
• The organisational development plan describes the organisational capabilities needed to deliver the strategic commissioning plan, the capability gaps and how they will be filled. It is developed every three years and updated annually.

PCT Boards will be working with local stakeholders in ensuring these plans are comprehensive and integrated into local delivery.

The SHA has the responsibility to ensure that all options are reviewed and financially developed in order to make an informed choice about the future of commissioning function. What is needed is a way to ensure that plans are rigorous, practical and consistent. And will improve the health of the local population.

Drawing from evidence from international working, academic reviews and experience from other sectors, PwC, working with PCTs, has created a commissioning cycle that describes what world class commissioners actually do to deliver the desired outputs of appropriate care and value for money.