World class commissioning is a country-wide scheme which will transform the way health and care services are commissioned – adding life to years and years to life.

NHS Suffolk, the county's primary care trust, will be tested every year on how well it delivers services. 

The public, media and stakeholders have all been asked their views on what NHS Suffolk does well and what it could improve to give vital 360 degree feedback on the organisation's work. From that, NHS Suffolk can put together a picture, based on evidence, of what it should be focusing on in Suffolk to ensure that people will live healthier and longer lives and get rid of health inequalities.

NHS Suffolk is also going through a self-assessment process to see where it can further develop to achieve world class commissioning and improve the overall experience of healthcare services in the county.

To become world class commissioners, NHS Suffolk will need to develop the knowledge, skills, behaviour and characteristics of a world class commissioning organisation. 

It will: 

• locally lead the NHS;
• work with community partners;
• engage with public and patients;
• collaborate with clinicians;
• manage knowledge and assess needs;
• prioritise investment;
• stimulate the market;
• promote improvement and innovation;
• secure procurement skills;
• manage the local health system;
• and make sound financial investments.

It is important to note that such things as cancer are still a very high priority – but they were not identified as areas for specific improvement under the umbrella of World Class Commissioning. NHS Suffolk will continue to focus on improving all areas of NHS care.