Overview

This bill aims to improve the NHS 111 service in England and Wales by setting mandatory training standards for its operators and ensuring clinical oversight of their work. It mandates specific training requirements and establishes the role of clinical advisors to enhance the quality and safety of advice given.

Description

The bill mandates the Secretary of State to establish regulations for training NHS 111 service operators. These regulations will require:

• Training consistent with the latest NHS England Integrated Urgent Care Service Specification.
• At least 10 weeks of initial training by an appropriate health professional (doctor, nurse, or midwife).
• Written and practical assessments.
• Sanctions for providers failing to meet these requirements.

The bill also requires regulations for clinical oversight, including:

• Access to clinical advisors at all times for service operators.
• At least one NHS Pathways-trained clinical advisor for every 30 operators.
• Recording, storing, and patient access to all calls and online interactions.
• Monthly review of a sample of each operator's interactions by a clinical advisor.
• Sanctions for providers failing to meet these requirements.

The Secretary of State must annually report to Parliament on provider performance and any sanctions applied.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State in implementing the Act, and any increase in spending under other Acts attributable to this Act, will be paid from public funds. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• NHS 111 service operators: Will be subject to mandatory training and assessment requirements.
• NHS 111 service providers: Will be responsible for ensuring compliance with training and clinical oversight standards and may face sanctions for non-compliance.
• Clinical advisors: Will play a crucial role in overseeing service operators and ensuring the quality of advice provided.
• Patients: Should benefit from improved quality and safety of advice received through the NHS 111 service.
• Parliament: Will receive annual reports on the implementation and effectiveness of the Act.

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