Digital PCN HUB Optimisation

ensuring the clinical system hub is fit for purpose

Action Plan for Establishing a New PCN

This action plan is inferred from the steps and practices outlined in the The Folkestone, Hythe and
Rural PCN Hub Pilot Project document, focusing on establishing a robust and effective PCN that meets the needs of its patients and workforce.

1. Establish Governance Structure

  • Form an executive board that includes a Clinical Director and representatives from each practice within the PCN. This board will oversee strategic decision-making and ensure alignment with the network’s goals (Page 24).
  • Appoint a leadership team, including an Operations Manager and a Digital Transformation Manager, to handle operational delivery and transformation program management (Page 24).

2. Develop a Service Delivery Model

  • Define the services that the PCN will provide, including online consultations, minor illness services, and multi-disciplinary team case management (Page10).
  • Create a delivery roadmap outlining key actions involved in implementing the hub model, along with standard operating procedures for each service (Page 10).

3. Implement Technical Solutions

  • Work with clinical system suppliers to develop the necessary IT infrastructure, including a centralised appointment booking system and online consultations (Page12). Also see https://westmidsdigitalhub.nhs.uk/pcn-emis-hub-configuration-checklist/
  • Ensure that the EMIS Clinical Service is configured to support federated online consultations and enable smooth workflows between practices and the hub (Page 21).

4. Workforce Design and Development

  • Recruit a diverse team of healthcare professionals, including Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Care Coordinators, and other ARRS-funded roles, to manage online consultations and deliver PCN services (Page 23).
  • Provide comprehensive training for staff on the new systems and clinical processes to ensure effective service delivery (Page 25).

5. Focus on Patient Access and Engagement

  • Develop a strategy for improving patient access to services, including additional hub appointments and online consultations (Page 6).
  • Create communication materials to inform patients about the new services available through the PCN (Page 11).

6. Establish Data Intelligence and Reporting Mechanisms

  • Implement data analytics tools to monitor service utilization, patient outcomes, and workforce efficiency (Page 28).
  • Set up a system for capturing and reporting data to meet contractual requirements and support population health management (Page 28).

7. Monitor and Evaluate Performance

  • Conduct regular reviews of service delivery to assess effectiveness and identify areas for improvement (Page 8).
  • Use feedback from patients and staff to refine services and operational processes (Page 33).

8. Secure Funding and Financial Sustainability

  • Identify and apply for funding streams to support the PCN’s operational costs, including ARRS and Enhanced Access contracts (Page 27).
  • Ensure a financial plan is in place to sustain services and cover IT system costs (Page 27).

9. Foster Collaboration and Partnerships

  • Engage with local community providers and stakeholders to enhance service delivery and support collaborative working (Page 6).
  • Explore opportunities for joint working with neighboring PCNs to share resources and best practices (Page 4).

10. Continuous Improvement and Innovation

  • Encourage a culture of innovation within the PCN to explore new service delivery models and technologies that can enhance patient care (Page 4).
  • Keep abreast of national guidelines and best practices to ensure the PCN remains aligned with healthcare advancements (Page 26).