Multi AQP for Endoscopy, Community Ultrasound and Cardiology Services Essex STP

The contracting authorities of NHS Basildon and Brentwood, Castle Point and Rochford, Mid Essex, Southend and Thurrock Clinical Commissioning Groups are pleased to confirm the awarded contracts for the provision of Any Qualified Practitioner (AQP) for:

1. Community Endoscopy (Essex STP) The service will include gastroscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. The aim of this service is to provide uncomplicated diagnostic/treatment and surveillance endoscopy. To improve access to early diagnostics and avoid the need for unnecessary referral to secondary care.

2. Community Ultrasound (Essex STP)

The Community Ultrasound (non-obstetric) Service is expected to compliment the Royal College of Radiologists 'Making the best use of clinical Radiology Services (2017 eighth edition)' Referral guidelines for GPs.

3.Community Cardiology (Thurrock CCG Only The service will offer a 'One Stop' Clinic, where clinical assessment, Diagnostic tests (Echo/ECG/Holter) and on-site interpretation by an experienced clinician allows risk stratification and a management plan to be developed at the first visit.

The AQP model is an accreditation process underpinned by 'call-off' of a Provider's services determined according to patients' choice. Referrals into these services may come from secondary care, accident and emergency, walk in centres or GP practices. Services must be provided by trained practitioners with appropriate equipment. Future AQP procurements for these Services will be conducted on a regular basis and these will be advertised in an identical manner to this Procurement.