NHS England has published a Demand Management: Good Practice Guide  which gives a list of initiatives and actions that CCGs should implement locally to effectively manage the increasing demand for elective care services, in particular reduce unnecessary outpatient appointments.

The guide outlines the elements CCGs are expected to include in their approach to demand management:

• Peer Review of Referrals
• Shared Decision Making
• Choice
• Advice and Guidance
• Alternatives to Outpatient Appointments
• Consultant-to Consultant Referral Protocols
• Direct Access to Diagnostics
• Management and Monitoring of Outpatient
• Follow up Appointments

This has been added to the Demand Management Hot Topic page.