SaHF DMBC Volume 1 Edition 1.1.pdf - Shaping a healthier future

2. Introduction to the NHS in NW London
This chapter describes the shape and structure of the NHS in North West (NW) London and
how the local commissioners ensure that the two million people who live here receive the
community, acute, mental health and specialist services they need.
2.1 Commissioning arrangements in NW London
Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) are currently responsible for commissioning the majority of NHS
services in England on behalf of the residents of their area. PCTs in London are grouped
into six ‘clusters’, one of which is the NW London Cluster. Figure 2.1 shows the different
NHS clusters in London.
Figure 2.1: PCT Clusters in London
The scope of Shaping a healthier future covers the services provided in NW London which
serves all residents of NW London and some residents of neighbouring boroughs and PCTs
who access services provided by NW London trusts. The NW London PCT Cluster
comprises eight PCTs: Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith and Fulham, Harrow, Hillingdon,
Hounslow, Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster, as shown in Figure 2.2.
2. Introduction to NHS NW London 3