Primary care trusts

As a result of the Department of Health's "Shifting the Balance of Power" programme, primary care trusts (PCTs) are now responsible for commissioning the majority of new projects. PricewaterhouseCoopers works with these organisations as they face a range of challenging issues.

PCTs are dealing with change across several areas - from the need to develop management capacity and commissioning skills, to engaging effectively with local communities and working in partnership with other local health economy bodies. The proposed funding regime, based on healthcare resource groups (HRG), will have a significant impact on the way PCT budgets are managed.

Potential issues

• Needs assessment
• Commissioning
• Manangement
• Tariffs (Payment by Results)
• Ensuring a "level playing field" between providers

PwC services

• Site rationalisation, estates strategy and procurement advice
• Financial due diligence and recovery planning
• Building primary care capacity
• Integration of support services
• Financial due diligence and recovery planning
• Advice on outsourcing and shared services
• Advice on Practice Based Commissioning
• Competition and regulatory advice