For the first time, the public can access comparative data showing how their local NHS Trust compares against others across England – both within individual service areas and at an overall level.
There are three tables, with access to an interactive dashboard, comprising:
- Acute Trusts
- Non–acute Trusts
- Ambulance Trusts
The tables can be found at NHS oversight framework >>
Assessment involves ranking individual Trusts using a range of different performance metrics including
- Waiting time for elective surgery
- Time to cancer diagnosis
- Treatment and time spent in ED departments
In addition, Trust finances are also considered as part of the assessment.
Once individual metrics scores are compiled, Trusts are placed into four performance segments. Those scoring highest are in segment 1, while the lowest performers from the metrics assessment are in segment 4. The tables display individual Trusts ranked by their average metric scores (where a low score represents a better ranking).
Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, a specialist centre, currently tops the acute Trust league table. The tables also indicate the size of each Trust and whether it comprises teaching hospitals. Given the variation in the individual characteristics of each Trust, such as the population it serves and the resources currently available, the rankings do not represent a like for like comparison. Trusts that may scoring highly on clinical treatment times, may still be marked down if they are operating at a budget deficit. Therefore, drilling down into the data available via the dashboard is essential to fully understand the context behind each Trusts’ rankings.
Comments
The tables, published for the first time, allow the public to access data regarding their local Trusts and make informed choices by looking at specific performance areas. Data will be submitted by Trusts on a daily basis, and the tables will be updated each month, ensuring up to date information is available to both the public and to Trusts. The intention is for the rankings to be updated every 3 months.
These tables are a welcome addition to the NHS’s performance framework, helping to drive up standards, promote accountability, and identify opportunities for learning and improvement. Significantly, greater transparency around performance may lead to a reduction in clinical negligence claims over time by identifying areas of concern earlier and encouraging proactive responses.
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