9th August 2024
Cheshire and Merseyside (C&M) Endoscopy Network commissioned the NHS Transformation Unit (NHS TU) to provide programme management and leadership to implement an Endoscopy Transformation Programme across the region. This meant working with a wide group of stakeholders including six providers of acute services. The aim of this programme was to transform endoscopy services across C&M, making them fit for purpose for the 21st century and creating an “endoscopy without borders” service.
The Challenge
In 2023, C&M Endoscopy Network, with the support of NHS TU to produce and author a NHSE short form business case, secured funding of £8.1m from NHS England to implement their four-strand model of care. The next challenge for the network was to then implement the recommendations of the business case, and the NHS TU were commissioned to manage the programme and to support the network to:
- Open a new Hub site
- Cohort advanced endoscopy procedures at three sites
- Deliver alternatives to traditional endoscopy procedures at an increased number of sites
- Pilot digital innovation to reduce duplicative admin processes at two sites
Our Approach
To implement the four-strand model of care, we adopted a three-phased approach:
- Phase 1. Mobilisation and Scoping
The first phase focused on establishing relationships with the Provider Trusts and gathering intelligence. We mapped existing services and gained an understanding of critical interdependencies and opportunities for collaborative procurement. We also established a robust governance structure during this phase.
- Phase 2. Delivery
The second phase was the most significant for implementation. Our experienced project managers ensured the four workstreams remained on track and met the key milestones. We provided assurance to the Endoscopy Network, Cheshire and Merseyside Diagnostics Programme and NHS England through regular reporting of progress, risks, and benefits realisation.
- Phase 3. Transition to Business as Usual
To ensure sustainability of the changes made during the programme, we provided a robust close-down and handover of the programme to the Endoscopy Network. This included handover of the benefits tracking to the Network team, and production of a detailed lessons learnt report to inform implementation of future programmes. We produced several key deliverables, including a high-level report outlining the outcomes of the programme and a detailed video. The video captured the transformation of endoscopy services across Cheshire and Merseyside in an audio-visual format and included estates and stakeholders from all Trusts involved in delivery as well as a patient testimonial.
The Outcome
The Endoscopy Transformation Programme has initiated system-wide transformational change across Cheshire and Merseyside that has started to see the realisation of benefits. Trusts involved in the programme delivered over 150 additional procedures in the first two months following implementation. Three additional Trusts are now delivering alternatives to traditional endoscopy procedures. Patient benefits and outcomes for this programme include:
- Increased choice, improved patient experience and waiting list reduction through the Alternatives to Endoscopy workstream
- Improved staff efficiency to free up time for patient facing activities through the Digital Innovation workstream
- Improved patient experience through greater access and choice for appointments through the Hub workstream
- Increased specialist skills and knowledge to improve patient experience, safety and efficiency through the Advanced Endoscopy workstream
The benefits of this programme will continue to increase over the course of the 2024/25 year.