ICS – Is it just a new CCG?

22 July 2022

On July 1^st 2022 Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCG’s) were no more, and instead Integrated Care Systems (ICS’s) were formed.

Prior to July 1^st, Hampshire LOC collaborated with seven separate CCGs (Clinical Commissioning Groups) across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, and also worked closely with bordering commissioners in Frimley, Dorset and Berkshire.

So is the ICS just a new term for CCG?

This is a nice easy ‘no’! Seven Hampshire CCGs are now one ICS supported by one ICB (Integrated Care Board who do the “commissioning” side of things). Due to our cross-border relationships, we will also continue to work closely with the neighbouring ICB’s in particular in Frimley, where three LOCs (Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey) all support practices.

Does this link to Optometry First?

This is a more complex ‘yes and no’ answer. ICS’s were already in the planning prior to the national post-covid NHS transformation and recovery program which has led to the introduction of Optometry First. Recently three early adopter sites across the country (including the Isle of Wight) began implementing this community  eyecare initiative to determine best practices and operational efficiency.

The amalgamation of the seven separate CCGs into one ICS in Hampshire is intended to deliver a more uniform approach to the commissioning of additional services, result in uniform clinical pathways and referral processes across the county. All of this is great news for patients and eyecare practitioners alike!

Does any of this change the GOS sight test / NHS contract for ophthalmic services?

Not at the moment. ICS’s are taking on delegated responsibility for GOS over the next year, however the service will continue to be delivered exactly as it is now, and all terms, fees and grants will continue to be agreed nationally.

To find out more about ICS’s and ICB’s, head to the NHS website here: https://www.england.nhs.uk/integratedcare/integrated-care-in-your-area/

LOCSU’s webinar on Optometry First is available here: https://www.locsu.co.uk/optometry-first-webinar-now-available-to-watch-again/