LES Specification

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A Local Enhanced Service (LES) Specification outlines the requirements for additional primary care services commissioned by local NHS bodies.

What does LES Specification mean?

What is ?

A Local Enhanced Service (LES) Specification is a contractual document that details the delivery requirements for enhanced primary care services commissioned by local NHS bodies. These specifications outline the scope, eligibility criteria, funding arrangements, performance indicators, and reporting requirements for services that go beyond core primary care. LES specifications enable PCNs and GP practices to provide tailored healthcare services that address specific local population needs not covered by national contracts.

LES Specification Best Practices

What is ?

  • Ensure all LES specifications clearly define service scope, eligibility criteria, and expected outcomes
  • Regularly review specifications to ensure alignment with local population health needs
  • Include detailed payment mechanisms and performance monitoring frameworks
  • Involve clinical input when developing specifications to ensure deliverability
  • Establish clear communication channels between commissioners and providers regarding specification requirements

Use LES Specification in a Sentence

What is ?

  1. The PCN clinical director reviewed the LES specification to understand the requirements for delivering the new diabetes management service.
  2. Funding for the extended hours service is outlined in section three of the LES specification.
  3. Before signing the contract, practice managers should carefully review the LES specification to ensure they can meet all performance indicators.
Frequently Asked Questions about
LES Specification

What does LES Specification mean?

A LES (Local Enhanced Service) Specification is a detailed contractual document that outlines the requirements for delivering enhanced primary care services commissioned by local NHS bodies. It defines the service scope, eligibility criteria, funding arrangements, and performance indicators for services that go beyond core GP contract obligations, enabling practices and Primary Care Networks to provide additional services tailored to local population needs.

How do LES Specifications differ from DES Specifications in primary care?

While both are enhanced service specifications, LES (Local Enhanced Service) Specifications are commissioned locally by Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) or Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) to address specific local population needs. In contrast, DES (Directed Enhanced Service) Specifications are nationally mandated and negotiated centrally as part of the GP contract. LES arrangements offer more flexibility to tailor services to local circumstances, while DES specifications ensure consistent service provision across England.

Who is responsible for developing and approving LES Specifications?

LES Specifications are typically developed by local NHS commissioning bodies, such as Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) or Integrated Care Boards (ICBs). The development process often involves input from local clinical leaders, public health teams, and sometimes patient representatives. The specifications are approved through local governance processes before being offered to GP practices or Primary Care Networks. This collaborative approach ensures specifications address genuine local needs while remaining practically deliverable.

What key elements should be included in a comprehensive LES Specification?

A comprehensive LES Specification should include: a clear service description and objectives; eligibility criteria for both providers and patients; detailed service requirements and standards; staffing and training requirements; key performance indicators; payment structure and amounts; reporting and monitoring arrangements; contract duration and termination conditions; and information governance requirements. Additional elements might include referral pathways, clinical governance arrangements, and quality improvement expectations.

How can Primary Care Networks effectively implement services outlined in LES Specifications?

Primary Care Networks can effectively implement LES-specified services by: conducting an initial feasibility assessment; designating a lead clinician and manager for the service; developing standardised protocols across member practices; investing in appropriate staff training; establishing clear data collection systems; creating shared resources and templates; regularly reviewing performance against specification requirements; and maintaining open communication channels with commissioners. PCNs should also consider how the LES aligns with their other services to ensure integrated care delivery.

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