Overview

This bill aims to reduce inequalities in healthcare for people with mental illness and learning disabilities in England. It requires health service commissioners to report annually to the Secretary of State on service equality, health outcomes, and patient experiences for this group.

Description

The Health Services Commissioning (Equality and Accountability) (No. 2) Bill mandates that health service commissioners in England must ensure health services meet the needs of individuals with mental illness and learning disabilities. This obligation is enshrined in the bill. Commissioners will be required to include in their annual reports (under Section 14Z15 of the Health and Social Care Act 2012) details of the steps taken and outcomes achieved in:

• Improving the quality of physical and mental health services, considering patient experience.
• Reducing inequalities in access to physical and mental health services.
• Reducing inequalities in physical and mental health outcomes.

The bill will come into force the day after receiving Royal Assent and applies only to England.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending. The cost implications would likely involve increased administrative burden for commissioners in producing the detailed annual reports, but precise figures aren't provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• People with mental illness and learning disabilities: This bill directly aims to improve their healthcare access, quality, and outcomes, potentially leading to better health and wellbeing.
• Health service commissioners: They are directly impacted by the new reporting requirements, which will necessitate additional work and resources.
• The Secretary of State for Health: Will receive the annual reports and be responsible for overseeing the implementation of the bill's provisions.

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