Operating Framework released by the DH

The NHS Operating Framework is an annual publication that sets out the priority areas, system levers, and enablers that support delivery of high quality healthcare across the NHS, and was released on 24th November by the DH.

It sets out the key priority areas for the service; describes the wide range of enablers to support the NHS in continuing to deliver, outlines the financial regime which will support the delivery of their priorities and strategy; and, sets out the planning framework and timetable for the coming year.

For the coming year, the Operating Framework sets out four key themes:

• the need to maintain the NHS’s continued strong performance on finance and service quality, including ensuring that the NHS Constitution right to treatment within eighteen weeks is met;
• the need to get the basics right every time, ensuring that elderly and vulnerable patients receive dignified and compassionate care in every part of the NHS;
• the need to create the foundation for sustainable delivery against the quality, innovation, prevention and productivity (QIPP) challenge; and
• the need to complete the transition to the new delivery system set out in Liberating the NHS.

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said:

"The NHS is taking on the challenge next year to make sure vulnerable people get the care they need. I know the NHS is capable of delivering top quality care for everyone.

"The NHS often delivers excellent care. But we've also seen some really shocking examples of vulnerable people being treated really badly by the NHS recently. This cannot go on — and the NHS knows something serious must be done to root out poor care.

"We must see improvements for people with dementia, particularly in the care they get in hospitals. It will often be in their best interests to be treated at home. Early diagnosis and support is therefore key to improving the quality of dementia care.

"We must look after carers too. Without them, the NHS would have an even bigger job to do. Local areas must publish their plans to support carers. This will allow carers to know what support is available to them, including paid for breaks."

Source: Department of Health