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Central services to the NHS

  • Last modified date:
    21 October 2009

Central services to the NHS arm's length bodies (ALBs) will provide improved cost-effective services and focused expertise across the health and social care system. All are special health authorities unless stated otherwise.

NHS Business Services Authority

The main processing facility and centre of excellence for payment, reimbursement, remuneration and reconciliation for NHS patients, employees and affiliated parties. As of April 2006, it performs the functions previously carried out by the Dental Practice Board, NHS Counter Fraud and Security Management Service, NHS Pensions Agency, NHS Logistics Authority and Prescriptions Pricing Authority.

Information Centre for health and social care

The Information Centre for health and social care works to coordinate and streamline the collection and sharing of data about health and adult social care.

NHS Appointments Commission (NHSAC)

Appoints all chair and non-executive appointments to NHS trusts, primary care trusts (PCTs) and strategic health authorities (SHAs), and other bodies as delegated by the Secretary of State. It makes up to 1,500 appointments annually.

NHS Blood and Transplant

NHS Blood and Transplant replaced the National Blood Authority and UK Transplant in October 2005. It promotes the donation of blood and organs, co-ordinate a 24-hour organ matching and allocation service, and arrange and keep track of the collection, preparation and distribution of blood.

NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement

The NHS Institute will work at national level to integrate, promote and support innovation, learning, leadership and improvement in the NHS. Its focus will be on achieving practical outcomes that help the health service deliver better quality and more effective patient care.

NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA)

Administers schemes under which NHS bodies pool their clinical negligence liabilities. It also promotes the highest possible standards of patient care and recommends changes to the Secretary of State that may be needed.

NHS Professionals (NHSP)

A not-for-profit service that provides medical and nursing staff to the NHS.

NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency (NHS PASA)

An executive agency that acts as a centre of expertise, knowledge and excellence in purchasing and supply matters for the NHS in England.

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