Overview

The Local Health Scrutiny Bill enhances the ability of local authorities in England and Wales to scrutinize decisions made by clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) regarding local health services. It strengthens the power of local authorities to request information and challenge proposals, improving transparency and accountability.

Description

This bill amends the Local Authority (Public Health, Health and Wellbeing Boards and Health Scrutiny) Regulations 2013. Key changes include:

• Increased Information Access: Local authorities gain the right to demand specific information from CCGs to better understand their decision-making processes, including alternative proposals considered and the impact on patients and staff.
• Enhanced Scrutiny Powers: CCGs must provide reasons for disagreeing with local authority recommendations.
• Delayed Implementation: CCGs cannot implement proposals that are under scrutiny by a local authority until the Secretary of State has reviewed the matter and issued a notice.
• Timely Notices: The Secretary of State must provide a notice to the local authority and the responsible person within 45 days of receiving a report, outlining decisions and directions made.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The costs associated with increased information requests and administrative processes are likely to be minimal. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities: Gain increased powers to scrutinize local health decisions and hold CCGs accountable.
• Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs): Face increased scrutiny and transparency requirements in their decision-making processes.
• Patients and Staff: May benefit from improved transparency and accountability in health service decisions.
• Secretary of State for Health: Takes on a greater role in resolving disputes between local authorities and CCGs.

Powered by nyModel