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Directed Enhanced Service (DES)
What does Directed Enhanced Service (DES) mean?
Examples of how to use the golf term Albatross
- Ensure clear understanding of the DES specification and requirements before signing up
- Develop robust implementation plans that include staff training and resource allocation
- Establish efficient data collection systems to meet reporting requirements
- Collaborate with other PCN practices to deliver DES requirements collectively where appropriate
- Regularly review performance against DES targets and adjust delivery as needed
Examples of how to use the golf term Albatross
- Our Primary Care Network has recently signed up to the Investment and Impact Fund DES to improve our quality outcomes.
- The practice manager explained that the Extended Hours Access DES provides funding for additional appointments outside core hours.
- GPs discussed how the Network Contract DES has transformed collaborative working across local practices.
What does Directed Enhanced Service (DES) mean?
A Directed Enhanced Service (DES) is a nationally specified service commissioned by NHS England that primary care providers can opt to deliver. These services extend beyond core contract requirements and focus on priority areas of healthcare, with specific funding allocated for their delivery. DES schemes include detailed specifications for implementation, delivery standards, and reporting requirements.
How do Directed Enhanced Services differ from core GP services?
Core GP services are mandatory contractual obligations that all practices must provide, including essential services like managing illness and referring patients to secondary care. In contrast, Directed Enhanced Services are optional additional services with specific funding attached. DES schemes focus on priority health areas or specific patient groups and have standardised national specifications, whereas core services cover the broader healthcare needs of the registered population.
What are the key Directed Enhanced Services currently available to Primary Care Networks?
Current key DES offerings include the Network Contract DES, which funds PCN collaboration and specific roles like clinical pharmacists; the Extended Hours Access DES, providing evening and weekend appointments; the Investment and Impact Fund DES, which incentivises quality improvement; the Early Cancer Diagnosis DES, focusing on improving cancer detection rates; and the Enhanced Health in Care Homes DES, supporting integrated care for care home residents. These services are regularly reviewed and updated by NHS England.
How are Directed Enhanced Services funded?
Directed Enhanced Services are funded through dedicated budgets allocated by NHS England, separate from core contract funding. Payment mechanisms vary by service but typically include a combination of participation payments (for signing up to provide the service), activity-based payments (based on number of interventions delivered), and achievement payments (based on meeting specified targets). Funding levels are nationally set and reviewed annually, with payments usually made directly to GP practices or through Clinical Commissioning Groups/Integrated Care Boards.
What is the relationship between Directed Enhanced Services and Primary Care Networks?
Primary Care Networks (PCNs) are the primary vehicle through which many Directed Enhanced Services are now delivered, particularly through the Network Contract DES. This DES provides funding for PCNs to employ additional staff, collaborate on service delivery, and work at scale. PCNs enable practices to collectively meet DES requirements that might be challenging for individual practices, allowing for more efficient service delivery and better patient outcomes through coordinated care across network practices.
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