Briefing: Independent sector treatment centres

This briefing paper explains why ISTCs were introduced, and how they are funded, staffed and regulated. It assesses their impact so far, including the quality of their services and whether they provide good value for money.

Independent sector treatment centres (ISTCs) provide services to NHS patients but are owned and run by organisations outside the NHS. This briefing paper explains why ISTCs were introduced, and how they are funded, staffed and regulated. It assesses their impact so far, including the quality of their services and whether they provide good value for money. Finally, it examines what their future may be now that the contracts ISTC providers hold with the Department of Health are beginning to expire.

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The King's Fund statement on Health Committee's report on independent sector treatment centres

The King's Fund today welcomed the Health Select Committee's report on independent sector treatment centres (ISTCs) and said the reality is that we are at a very early stage in their development and much of the commentary thus far has been based on a small amount of activity.

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