Minutes:
The Chair started the update by informing members of a change in role, having moved from Vice Chair to Chair of the GMCA Health Scrutiny Committee following the resignation of the previous Chair.
The Chair provided a summary of the March GMCA Health Scrutiny Committee meeting, which covered several key areas:
Elective Recovery
The Committee received an update on elective recovery across Greater Manchester. Members were asked to recognise the progress made in reducing the number of long-waiting patients and to support cross-cutting system programmes aimed at improving access. It was noted that waiting times over 18 weeks had been rising prior to the pandemic, increasing from 194,000 in 2015 to 284,000 in 2020, and reaching approximately 500,000 during the pandemic. This figure has since stabilised.
Greater Manchester has made significant progress in reducing the number of patients waiting over 18 months, down from 15,000 in 2022. The current focus is on ensuring patients begin treatment within 18 weeks. As of November 2024, Greater Manchester was achieving this for 54% of patients, placing it fourth lowest nationally. The government target is to reach 92% by 2029. The Committee noted that variation exists across localities and treatment types.
Initiatives to support recovery include the development of a single point of access for referrals, the establishment of a GM-wide specialist service to support Primary Care, expansion of community services, and the optimisation of surgical hubs and Community Diagnostic Centres.
Major Trauma Centres Review
The Committee received a briefing on the review of Greater Manchester’s Major Trauma Centres. Approximately 1,600 people in the region experience major trauma annually. The two designated centres are Salford Royal and Manchester Royal Infirmary. The review follows a national peer review in September 2024 and aims to ensure the best patient outcomes while making optimal use of resources. The site selection process is ongoing.
Service Reconfiguration Updates
Updates were provided on the reconfiguration of ADHD services for both adults and children. NHS England has approved the options appraisal for Adult ADHD services, with public consultation expected in July 2025. Children’s ADHD services are currently progressing through governance for implementation.
The review was prompted by a significant increase in ADHD diagnoses, attributed to improved understanding and broader diagnostic criteria. The Committee noted the need to move away from the current “first come, first served” model and towards a system that prioritises those with the most severe needs. The proposed model includes single points of access in each locality, local hubs for support, and a focus on practical interventions. Officers highlighted the importance of face-to-face assessments and the need for early intervention. Engagement with families and young people has been extensive, and the approach aligns with national recommendations.
Action: The Committee agreed that this update should be shared with the Children’s Committee.
Other Reports
The Committee also received updates on Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Urgent Treatment Centres and Emergency Access.
NHS GM Sustainability Plan
The Chair raised a question regarding the future of the NHS Greater Manchester Sustainability Plan in light of recent announcements about the closure of NHS England, significant cost reductions required by NHS GM, and back-office cuts across NHS Trusts. The Committee was informed that it is too early to determine the full impact of these changes. A briefing is expected at the April GMCA meeting. Members were invited to submit any specific concerns to GMCA governance officers by Tuesday, 25th March.
Future Planning
The Chair noted interest in developing a Greater Manchester-wide consultancy service focused on innovation. Further details will be developed in due course.