Scrutiny Committee Retains Concerns Over Health Board Restructure Despite Modifications

Modifications to a planned reorganization of a major health board have not resolved the concerns previously voiced by a scrutiny committee. Oxfordshire’s Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (HOSC) is requesting that the government examine the proposals put forth by the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire West Integrated Care Board (BOB ICB). At a meeting held on Thursday, the committee reaffirmed its backing for this “call in” request, despite members being informed that a number of alterations had been made to the plans. BOB ICB did not respond to the BBC’s request for a comment. Previously, the body had stated that its proposals would maintain a “dedicated focus” for each of the three areas it covers. Concerns have been raised regarding the removal of dedicated “place directors” for each county. The committee was informed that BOB ICB has committed to introducing a “place-based convenor” role instead. This position would not be financed by the care board, but rather by the county’s Better Care Fund, which receives contributions from both the NHS and Oxfordshire County Council. Members were also apprised that agreements had been reached concerning changes to the management of budgets. Stephen Chandler, the executive director of people and transformation at Oxfordshire County Council, provided this update. He stated: “A number of the areas of budget that were being proposed to be managed centrally, there’s been agreement that they will be subject to local oversight.” Mr. Chandler added that “really really good progress” had been achieved, but acknowledged that “ongoing discussions” were still occurring regarding details in several areas, including the new role specifically dedicated to Oxfordshire. Despite these changes, HOSC indicated it still supported the restructure being referred to the government. Jane Hanna, Chair of the committee, commented: “We are nowhere near at the moment taking that call in request off the table. And I know that’s obviously something that is desired by the ICB.”