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Code of Conduct

Last modified date:

25 February 2008
Gateway reference:

9251

The effective implementation of Payment by Results (PbR) will depend on constructive relationships between all parties operating within the system.

The purpose of the Code of Conduct (the Code) is to:

establish core principles, with some ground rules for organisational behaviour, and expectations as to how the system should operate
minimise disputes, as well as guide the resolution of them.

The Secretary of State requires compliance with this Code by all NHS Bodies operating PbR, including Strategic Health Authorities, NHS Trusts and Primary Care Trusts (PCTs). Independent sector providers and Foundation Trusts will also be required to accept compliance with the Code as a condition of the standard contract to provide NHS services.

"We have seen with the first NHS foundation trusts how PbR provides powerful incentives for efficiency; but it is essential that the relationship between commissioner and provider is clearly defined and that both parties live up to their responsibilities. The Code will help ensure that happens and so we welcome it. We will continue to work with the Department of Health to ensure that the benefits from the introduction of PbR are maximised." William Moyes, Executive Chairman, Monitor