People in Sefton are being asked for their views about a range of local health policies that are being updated to reflect the latest medical evidence.

The two NHS bodies responsible for the shaping and buying of health services in Sefton is reviewing more than 100 policies to ensure that resources are used on the treatments which work best for local people.

NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG are working together with their counterparts in Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, St Helens and Warrington CCGs on a project called ‘Reviewing local health policies’ to agree a number of clinical procedures based on certain criteria.

The review aims to ensure that patients receive the appropriate healthcare in the right place at the right time, that treatments with no or very little evidence of effectiveness are not used and procedures are carried out for maximum clinical or functional benefit, not for cosmetic of psychological reasons. Clinicians will explore other, more suitable treatments for patients with these types of needs.

Another advantage is to ensure services are up to date with the latest national guidelines, methods and technology, whilst also offering value for money. Where possible, another aim is to try and standardise the policies and treatments available across the seven CCG areas.

Dr Rob Caudwell, chair of NHS Southport and Formby CCG, said: “The quality of care given to patients is the most important factor in developing these policies and by working together in this review we can make sure that NHS resources are being spent in the best way on the most effective treatments and procedures.

“We are reviewing these polices against the latest medical evidence, advice and treatments, so we can be sure we get the best care and outcomes for our patients.

“Patients who might not be eligible for treatment will still be able to apply through an individual funding request (IFR) where appropriate.”

Treatments being reviewed over the next few months in this first phase of the programme include removal of piles, cataract surgery, laser tattoo removal and treatments for hairloss.

You can view all of the policies being reviewed and find out how to have your say on our current exercises page – until the 18th September 2017.