In order to free up capacity to enable practices to concentrate their resources on dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, targets linked to Local and Network Incentive Schemes (LISs) will be suspended (including those funded from PMS premium). We are keen to ensure practices are not penalised financially by the COVID-19 threat or by the suspension of these schemes. Therefore arrangements will be put in place to ensure that practices continue to receive payment for these schemes.

It is recognised that there are a wide range of schemes in place across north east London, with different requirements, targets and payment mechanisms. As a general principle, for new schemes introduced in 2019/20, practices will be paid on the basis of full achievement in Quarter 4 and for well-established schemes, practices will be paid on the basis of their highest performance in previous years.   

The introduction of new LISs will be suspended, unless the nature of the scheme, supports delivery of primary care during the pandemic i.e. NEL-wide role out of the Duty Doctor/GP Primary Care Response Service (in hours).  

As you will be aware, NHS England/Improvement are reviewing and, where appropriate, temporarily suspending certain contractual requirements on GP practices, including QOF, ensuring that income is protected. 

We will be working closely with your local primary care leads on the detail on the detail and the process to ensure you are not penalised financially by COVID-19.