NHS Liverpool Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is responsible for planning health care for the city. It is asking local people for their views on the provision of certain treatments and services.
Currently, the NHS across Cheshire and Merseyside has a joint policy which sets eligibility criteria for around 90 non-urgent treatments. The policy covers procedures which are known to have medical benefits only in certain situations or for a small number of patients.
The types of treatments covered by the policy include procedures in the following categories.
- Cosmetic / Plastic Surgery
- Skin conditions (dermatology)
- Diabetes
- Eye conditions including cataract surgery
- Ear nose and throat conditions for children
- Complimentary therapies
- Dental surgery
- Reproductive and urine system health, circumcision, penile implants
- Fertility treatment
- Mental Health
- Nervous system conditions (neurology) such as stroke and Bells Palsy
- Musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, knee replacements, Dupeytrens, ganglion removal, trigger finger, and carpal tunnel syndrome
- Varicose veins
- Weight management surgery
The policy has been reviewed to reflect the latest evidence about the effectiveness of different treatments. It also includes new services and procedures introduced since the original policy was written. Comments from the public and health professionals will be used by NHS Liverpool CCG to make a decision about whether to adopt the draft.
All 12 Cheshire and Merseyside CCGs are seeking views on the draft policy. More information and a survey can be found online. If you need a printed version of the documents – or call 0800 218 2333.
People in Liverpool have until 12 noon on 3 June 2014 to provide feedback.