Background to PCNs

Primary Care Networks (PCNs) are a key part of the NHS Long Term Plan, all general practices were required to be in a network by June 2019, and the then CCGs (now replaced by ICBs) were required to commit recurrent funding to develop and maintain them.

The networks have expanded neighbourhood teams which comprise a range of staff such as GPs, pharmacists, district nurses, community geriatricians, dementia workers and Allied Health Professionals such as physiotherapists and podiatrists/chiropodists, joined by social care and the voluntary sector’.

Under the plans, all general practices are aligned to a PCN, covering 30,000-50,000 patients, with local Enhanced services funded by CCGs and provided through the new network contracts (see below). The networks will provide the structure and funding for services to be developed locally, in response to the needs of the patients they serve. It is important that community pharmacy teams are fully involved in the work of their PCN.

To find out more see:

• PSNC resources and guidance
• PCN Maps:
  • Oxfordshire
  • East Berkshire
  • Berkshire West

NHS England have produced the briefing below on Primary Care Networks, in association with the PCPA and Association of Pharmacy Technicians:

• Primary care networks: A briefing for pharmacy teams

These free On Demand webinars explain more about the NHS Long Term Plan, Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and how community pharmacy fits in:

• NPA Webinar – Navigating the Future – Primary Care Integration & Innovation
• Pharmacy Complete – Community Pharmacy in a new NHS