Bodies created to take over control of primary health services from local health authorities. The trusts are made up of GP s and other healthcare professionals. For more on National Health Service structures go to http:// www.nhs.uk/thenhsexplained/how_the_nhs_works.asp For definitions of other NHS terms go to http:// www.nhs.uk/thenhsexplained/glossary.asp
A Primary Care Trust is a free-standing statutory body which is responsible for delivering health care to the local population through GPs, community nursing staff and other primary care staff. The key functions of a PCT are to improve the health of, and address health inequalities in, the community; to develop primary care and community services across the Trust's area; progressively take on the commissioning of hospital services for patients within the Trust's area, to meet patients' needs appropriately; to directly provide Community Hospital and Community Health services.
A body providing primary healthcare (doctors, dentists, etc.) and community health care (nursing and occupational therapy services, etc.) in a locality, accountable to the Health Authority
(PCT) Primary Care Trust – a locally managed, free standing NHS body, able to commission most hospital and community services. A PCT has the additional responsibility of providing community services, staff employment and owning and running premises
Independent organisations which are taking over the responsibility of Primary Care Groups and have enhanced powers
Local NHS commissioners of health care
These are local health bodies that are responsible for providing primary and community health services.
a locally managed, free standing NHS body, able to commission most hospital and community services, staff employment and owing and running premises. See also: Services Directory section for a list of the 13 Primary Care Services in Essex and the services they provide.
This is the organisation that looks after primary care (see definition). PCTs are commissioners (see definition)
free-standing statutory trust responsible for health services in a geographical area in England. NHS 'Jargon Busting' site
A local statutory organisation, often called the PCT, with wide responsibility for the delivery of health services through GP surgeries, clinics and centres. Further information: http://www.natpact.nhs.uk
A local statutory organisation with wide responsibility for the delivery of health services through GP surgeries, clinics and centres. Devon has six, the geographical boundaries of which cross over those of District councils.
this is an organisation of family doctors, community nurses and other healthcare professionals who are your initial contact with the NHS. They arrange services for patients within the local community and may refer you to the local hospital.
Primary Care Trusts (England) are responsible for the planning and commissioning health services for their local population. For example, PCTs must make sure there are enough GPs to serve the community and that they are accessible to patients. PCTs must also guarantee the provision of other health services including hospitals, dentists, mental health care, walk-in centres, NHS Direct, patient transport (including accident and emergency), population screening, pharmacies and opticians. In addition, they are responsible for integrating health and social care so the two systems work together for patients.
