The NHS Operating Framework for 2010-11 was published today. A copy has been placed in the Library of the House and copies are available to hon. Members from the Vote Office.

The NHS Operating Framework for 2010-11 describes a stable financial settlement to operate within and makes clear what the NHS needs to do to deliver the priorities agreed as part of the comprehensive spending review 2007, and be in the best possible position to move into the new Spending Review period beyond 2011.

The priorities for the NHS in 2010-11 continue to be:

improving standards of cleanliness and tackling healthcare associated infections;

improving access to care through the achievement of the 18-week referral to treatment pledge and improving access to GP services, including at evenings and at weekends;

improving the health of adults and children and reducing health inequalities, by focusing on improving care for cancer and stroke, and paying particular attention to children’s health, and maternity and neonatal services;

improving patient and staff experience, satisfaction and engagement;

and preparing to respond in a state of emergency, such as an outbreak of pandemic influenza.

In addition to the national priorities, primary care trusts (PCTs) need to continue to improve at understanding the particular needs of their local populations and take concrete steps to address them. In order to meet their own local needs, PCTs will need to work in step with local government through local area agreements that focus on improving health and well-being.

Local priorities will build on evidence about current PCT performance and regional variation, and also plan for the future by incorporating work being done in local service reviews.

By the end of 2010-11 we expect to see NHS organisations that have adapted to reflect the quality and productivity challenge while maintaining improved delivery and financial discipline.

The NHS must meet the needs of its patients and their families, the expectations of the public and the aspirations of its staff. At all times, the NHS must be safe, effective, personalised and fair. The more responsive and personalised the NHS gets, the better the care it will provide and the more confidence the health service will inspire.

The NHS Operating Framework for 2010-11 should be read in conjunction with the NHS 2010-15 document.