This section describes the mechanisms which will replace contracts so as to ensure more equitable and effective use of resources. This section also describes how a single stream of funds will operate, and, among a range of other financial issues, the ways in which the NHS in Scotland can use its resources to provide better health care. The Consequences of Abolishing Contracts 100. An essential requirement is to move away from wasteful competition and secrecy to open discussions between Health Boards and Trusts to allow them to share relevant information and agree service strategies.
More openness is one of the key changes which is required to drive change.
Mutually supportive objectives and actions must be agreed by each organisation over the coming period to deliver health services and improve the health of the population. The extent to which the programmes serve the greater good of the population and secure health gain will be the key criterion by which Boards and Trusts will be held accountable. The principal agenda for Trusts will be the implementation of relevant Health Improvement Programmes and the subsequent Trust Implementation Plans. This will be reflected in funding mechanisms. The emphasis is on the need to focus on health gain and improved outcomes for local populations.