NHS objectives outlined

The objectives are set in the 2019/20 accountability framework, published as a joint document for the first time.

After the current transitional year, a four-year framework, informed by the forthcoming health service long-term plan implementation programme and workforce plan, will be issued.

In 2019/20 the NHS will be measured against the five financial tests in the long-term plan – returning to financial balance; achieving annual cash-releasing productivity growth of at least 1.1%; reducing demand growth through integration and prevention; cutting variation; and using capital to drive transformation.

The framework, which includes the NHS England mandate and financial directions, said current financial pressures must be the first call for funds. More than half of trusts are expected to be in financial balance by the end of 2019/20. The national bodies must also increase spending in primary, mental health and community health services as a share of total revenue.

 NHS England and NHS Improvement must help mitigate any adverse impact of EU exit and make a success of opportunities that emerge.

NHS Providers head of policy Amber Jabbal (pictured) said: ‘Government will continue to play a central role in ensuring the NHS is well equipped to deliver the aspirations in the long-term plan. This includes ensuring we see sufficient funding for adult social care, capital, public health, and education and training, on which much of the plan is dependent.’