The new model will enable patients to access GP out-of-hours services through the 111 phone line and make use of a clinical hub to provide earlier assessment and advice.
Contracts have been awarded for the new service in six areas of the region, while existing contracts are being varied to align the service across the region.
Commissioners said the new model would bring GP out-of-hours services, social care, ambulance and 111 closer together.
Dr Jonathan Leach, GP and clinical lead for NHS 111 at Sandwell and West Birmingham CCG which is leading the process said: ‘This is about meeting the demands of a growing population, and mirrors the vision set out by NHS England to provide local health services that are fit for purpose and meet the needs of our patients.
‘The new service provides a single access point through the NHS 111 service, which will direct patients to the right service for their needs. The service redesign will enable earlier clinical assessment and advice through the introduction of a clinical hub. We are also introducing closer working between 111, out of hours and wider urgent care partners.
‘Patients will be able to access these services by dialling 111, will be assessed, and will then be signposted to the most appropriate level of care for their need.’
Local 111 and out-of-hours contracts will be brought together in an alliance under a regional umbrella agreement.
The sixteen CCGs involved are Birmingham South Central, Sandwell and West Birmingham, Herefordshire, Warwickshire, Rugby, Birmingham Cross City, Coventry and Rugby, Dudley, Solihull, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, South Worcestershire, Redditch and Bromsgrove, and Wyre Forest.
Providers contracted to provide the service include Badger, Shropdoc and Vocare, Care UK and Primecare.
The new service is planned to go live in November.
Photo: iStock
