What can CCGs learn from the Olympics?

If you, like us here at eskimosoup, were one of the one billion people around the world captivated by Danny Boyle’s stunning and fantastical Olympic opening ceremony you will have found it hard to miss the NHS taking centre stage.

A segment of the jaw-dropping event included dozens of skipping nurses and children in pyjamas leaping acrobatically on massive hospital beds. It was a celebration of Britain’s national health service which saw 1,200 volunteers from UK hospitals coming together to promote the inspirational work they do. The NHS has come under a lot of scrutiny since the government’s Health and Social Care Act passed earlier this year with some criticising it as the end to the NHS in all but name.

There is no denying that those involved have a steep hill to climb in winning over the hearts and minds of our very confused public. Not to mention the challenges and inconsistencies faced by those currently inside the NHS.

Some face job uncertainty while others are simply struggling to make the transition into a brand new role. But, as it was so adeptly depicted in the Olympic hospital scene, it is time to look at the positives too.

CCGs now have the opportunity to put patients at the heart of everything they do. It is actually a very exciting time for the NHS.

As Andrew Lansley, Secretary of State for Health said, while making his speech at The Commissioning Show at the end of June: “Do not only think of the immediate difficulties, but the opportunities ahead.”

OK, OK, this might not go down well with everyone but the new arrangements present an opportunity to commission the best possible services for local people and help shape the local health economy to what they need. CCGs have a big learning curve ahead with many having to figure things out from scratch.

In fact, the Olympics as a whole should be looked upon for inspiration. So much great effort and focus is going into the preparation and smooth running of the event. Despite some inconsistencies and problems along the way great personal performance and the benefits of team work have cemented the 2012 games as a lasting legacy just as CCGs should hope to replicate.