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The NHS in England: The operating framework for 2008/9 Annex D - Principles and rules for co-operation and competition

Competition and choice are powerful levers to drive up service quality, deliver better value and reduce inequalities.  Yet they can only be effective if there are clear, enforceable rules guiding and governing behaviour within the healthcare system.

The principles and rules for cooperation and competition provide simple, workable guidance for system managers, commissioners, and providers on the expected behaviours and rules governing cooperation and competition, in the provision of NHS services. These rules ensure fair and transparent competition where this is needed to make the best use of resources and enable innovation, and provide essential safeguards for the interests of patients, taxpayers, and the reputation of the NHS.

• Download Principles and rules for Cooperation and Competition (PDF, 136K)