Why do doctors need to know about NHS management?
The NHS is changing rapidly. With the introduction of foundation trusts, NHS organisations need to maintain financial stability independently to survive. Consultants are strategically placed as leaders within services and, by understanding clinical and financial aspects of service provision (for example, payment by results), can provide a cost effective service while delivering excellent clinical care. If clinicians fail to provide cost effective services they run the risk that primary care trusts will take their business elsewhere (such as to the independent sector). Most NHS trusts have an overall vision and objectives for what they want to achieve, as well as annual targets to aim for. Having a sound understanding of these targets, the financial strategy of the trust, and the commissioning process can help consultants to manage change effectively.
