Audit Commission

Summary [Download full report below this summary]

The report looks at the ambitious programme of market-style reforms that aim to improve efficiency and effectiveness and were first set out in the NHS Plan of 2000. It evaluates the key elements: giving patients more choice; greater NHS use of the independent sector; the creation of foundation trusts; practice based commissioning; and Payment by Results. It also reviews the impact of major changes to employment contracts with NHS staff.

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National study ( PDF, 654kb )

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