We are the guardians of the NHS, holding to account local commissioners. Our role is to relay and explain national policy, set direction and support and develop all NHS Trust bodies (Primary Care Trusts and NHS Trusts providing acute, mental health and ambulance services).
We ensure that local health systems operate effectively and efficiently for our population of 4.3 million people. This includes making certain that national standards and priorities are met so that the population of the East Midlands is cared for in high quality, safe environments and services are continuously improved and developed. An absolute priority for us is improving health and reducing inequalities.
The East Midlands has nine Primary Care Trusts (PCTs). They are the leaders of the local health communities and are responsible for commissioning health and healthcare services for their local population. These organisations hold their community’s share of the regional NHS budget of £6 billion. They serve a range of rural, inner city and urban populations.
NHS East Midlands was formally established on 1 July 2006, replacing the former Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Strategic Health Authority and Trent Strategic Health Authority.
We are ultimately responsible to the Secretary of State for Health.
