A new alliance of north east London Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) have made a significant step today by awarding a new contract for an integrated NHS 111 and clinical assessment service to London Ambulance Service

Dr Anwar Khan, Lead Chair for North East London Commissioning Alliance – which is made up of the seven CCGs – said:

“It is the first time our local NHS organisations have come together in this way to plan for and buy services jointly. “This is the way of the future as we shape services which are consistent across north east London, formed around local people and put their needs first.”
“People from across the community helped shape the new service and the process for selecting the organisation which would deliver it. Young people, carers, older people, representatives of the traveller community and different faith groups all took part in planning the specification for the service to make sure it would truly meet the needs of those who live in the area.”

While NHS 111 is currently available in the area, the new, integrated service, which will begin this summer, means GPs, nurses, paramedics and pharmacists will be giving urgent expert advice over the phone through the free NHS 111 helpline, 24 hours a day. The service will also be integrated with other urgent care services such as GP practices, GP hubs, mental health services, urgent care centres, and pharmacies across the area.

Dr Fenella Wrigley, Medical Director for London Ambulance Service, said:

“We’re really pleased to be awarded the contract and have extensive experience providing urgent care.
“This is good news for patients who, rather than be signposted to other services, will receive health advice, a prescription and an appointment for further treatment if needed, all from one call.”

Dr Kate Adams, Clinical Lead for integrated urgent care for North East London Commissioning Alliance, said:

“It’s really important that people know that the new NHS 111 will be so much more than an urgent advice line.
“From the summer there will be clinical experts available to assess people’s urgent symptoms and give their expert opinion. They’ll be on hand 24/7 and will also book appointments for people with the most appropriate NHS service when they need them.
“This means no more sitting around waiting for hours in A&E to speak to a clinician. If you’re ill and not sure what to do, call 111. Help us keep our busy A&Es free to treat those who need emergency, life-saving care.”