Plan for complex technical areas and identify key priorities

Why this matters

As demonstrated by our overview of workstream arrangements, delivering the transition involves a wide range of functional areas. Some of these require prioritisation to meet the 1 April deadline or due to the additional layer of complexity or risk they involve.

What works in practice

With a limited timeframe and a strict deadline, ICB leaders had to identify priority technical areas to focus on and align ahead of the formal creation of the ICB. These were primarily in HR – where policies needed to align to support the restructure – and in finance and contracting, which held significant financial and clinical risk. Some ICBs brought in additional expertise to strengthen assurance in high-risk areas. 

Advice from ICB leaders

• The disaggregation and transfer process might be more complex and time-consuming than anticipated, so additional preparation can improve its implementation.
• Ensure baseline contractual and financial ledger information is accurate and fit for changes in contractual and financial arrangements.