Herts Valley CCG Cardiology Clinical Advice and Diagnostic Service

NHS Herts Valleys CCG are seeking to commission a Community Cardiology service comprised of the following key elements. • A GP Direct Access Echocardiogram and Ambulatory ECG Service that will provide this cardiology diagnostic test for patients aged over 18 years.

The service will be provided in each of the four localities providing equitable access for our population.

This scheme proposes that moving Echocardiograms and ambulatory ECG into the community will result in a reduction of cost per test and improved patient experience.

The service specification describes the service, the model, the aims and objectives and desired outcomes/KPIs over three years. • Commissioning of a Cardiology Up-Skilling Programme in Primary Care for Herts Valleys GP’s to include: - Heart Failure - Atrial Fibrillation - ECG and Echo report interpretation - Exam and reinforcement of up-skilling. • Re-design of the Service Specification for the Community Heart Failure Service, provided by Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust, to align the service with the GP Direct Access Echocardiogram Service and enhanced skills in Primary Care.

The CCGs expected outcomes for the service are as follows: • Provide rapid access for Direct Access Echocardiograms and ambulatory ECG tests in a community setting. • The diagnostic investigation provides clear and robust evidence of the cardiac condition. • To provide the Referrer with a result of the echocardiogram and clear clinical management guidelines • Triaging patients to secondary care where appropriate. • Access to earlier treatment and improved cardiac health. • Reduction to first Out-patient appointments/diagnostic tests in secondary care • Improved rate of diagnosis • Cost and efficiency savings • Equitable service provision • Continued partnership working with HVCCG local secondary care providers.

The CCG will be holding a Market Engagement Event on the 15 May 2015 to inform potential providers of their requirements.

Further details can be found on the CCGs nominated online portal.

To register for the event please register on the portal at http://portal.clinicalprocurementsolutions.co.uk