THE NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) which manage health services in Northwich, Winsford, Middlewich and Crewe are operating below a required standard, according to a report released today.

NHS England has today published 2017/18 annual assurance ratings, known as Improvement and Assessment Framework (IAF) ratings for all Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) in England.

These ratings provide a benchmark for CCGs, so they can compare themselves to others and assess where they need to focus.

It also gives national and local regulators and partners an indication of where more support is needed.

The overall rating for both NHS South Cheshire CCG, commissioning health services in Middlewich and Crewe and NHS Vale Royal CCG, covering Northwich and Winsford, has been rated as ‘requires Improvement’.

In the 2016/17 annual assurance ratings the CCGs were given an overall rating of ‘inadequate’ and were placed by NHS England under special measures. Now that the assessments have improved it has been considered that special measures are no longer required.

Despite being rated as ‘requires improvement’, CCG chairman Dr Jonathan Griffiths says the rating shows the group is providing ‘high quality care’.

Dr Jonathan Griffiths, GP chairman for NHS Vale Royal CCG, said: “The improved assessment rating for the CCG is a clear indication that we’re delivering strong, high quality and innovative care for our local patients.

“This time last year we were given a clear remit to get a grip on our finances and balance our books, as well as improve our relationship with our providers and wider partners. This change in rating and movement out of special measures demonstrates our commitment to do just that.”

Dr Andrew Wilson, GP Chair for NHS South Cheshire CCG added: “As we move forward we acknowledge the work that has been done but continue to develop plans that bring further control and management of our financial situation and strengthen our relationships. These plans are absolutely being done by working closely with our local health and care partners.”