That the pathology services that support the Chlamydia screening programme across Kent are procured from a single provider, rather than the variety of providers currently used, in order to improve the outcomes, efficiency and effectiveness of the service.
How the decision relates to BS4K and Corporate Objectives
Provision of chlamydia screening is a government requirement and the current contract is due for renewal. As the public health authority for Kent from April 2013 KCC will be responsible for ensuring that all elements of the Chlamydia screening programme operate effectively to produce the best outcomes for people in Kent.
Impact/costs and risks of proposed decision
The current cost of the pathology services contract is £719,500 pa
Tendering for a single provider is expected to generate significant savings on the current costs which will be reinvested in the testing programme to improve the service.
Decision type: Key
Decision status: For Determination
Decision due: September 2012 by Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health
Department: Social Care, Health & Wellbeing
Consultation process
N/a
Consultees
No
Aims and level(s) of consultation (KCC consultation levels attached)
NHS consultation procedures have been applied.
Provision of service is a government requirement
Key consultee groups
Start and finish dates of consultation.
Equalities Impact Assessment included in the consultation documentation. Please state where this can be found.
Relevant NHS EIA processes have been applied.
Date of publication of consultation outcomes and updated Equalities Impact Assessment
Informing Only (Who and when)
Has the matter already been discussed by a Cabinet Committee? If not when will be it discussed by the Cabinet Committee and the date of the meeting
Decision will be discussed at the Social Care and Public Health Cabinet Committee on 14/09/2012
Is the matter referred to in your Business Plan or Medium Term Capital Programme?
Chlamydia screening programme is currently the responsibility of the NHS until transfer of public health responsibilities to KCC in April next year. This matter is referenced in the relevant NHS plans and programmes.
Which Members and electoral Divisions are affected by this proposed decision? Is it All Members?
All members
Financial implications: Dr Faiza Khan - Consultant in Public Health Tel: 01732 375200 - E mail: faiza.khan@wkpct.nhs.uk
Legal implications: 12/01958
Equalities implications: This will be a significant change to the provision of service to part of the county wide Chlamydia screening programme.