Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Deferred
NHS Supply Chain improvements will take several years to benefit trusts and increase usage.
Conclusion
NHS Supply Chain recognises that it needs to make considerable improvements to its business if it is to give trusts a better service. While it has a programme of planned improvements, it will be several years before the NHS sees the benefits from these plans and starts to use NHS Supply Chain more as a result.22
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the committee's observation that improvements are needed and will take time. They state that NHS Supply Chain is developing a business case for its modernization programme, scheduled for submission by Winter 2024, which will outline the timetable and approach, pending necessary approvals.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
5.1 The government agrees with Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Winter 2024 5.2 NHS SC has been developing a variety of inputs required to deliver the modernisation programme. These will be brought together for submission of the business case by winter 2024. This submission will consider the overall timetable and include a programme for the recommended approach including a benefits realisation plan. 5.3 Key activities that will enable the implementation of the business case include: • agreement of the annual business plan for 2024-25 by NHS England in May 2024 • the Department’s approval of a professional services business case • development and submission of the business case by NHS SC by Winter 2024 • approval to proceed with the recommended option by NHS England, DHSC and HMT • delivery of the plan by NHS SC (subject to business case approvals) 5.4 NHSE’s approval of NHS SC’s annual business plan and funding is inextricably linked to its own funding settlement being confirmed by government. NHS funding for the 2024-25 financial year was confirmed at the Spring Budget published in March 2024. NHS funding beyond 2024-25 will be agreed as part of the next 2024 Spending Review.