New set of clinical policies offering latest evidence-led treatments published

NHS Cheshire and Merseyside is publishing 25 clinical policies for treatments and procedures that have been updated in line with the latest knowledge of what works best, in the third phase of its harmonisation programme to also ensure equal access for patients no matter which part of the region they live in.

These policies went to public engagement where feedback was received, this has now been considered and approved, and policies are available on our website.

The policies cover some specific treatments and procedures, such as surgical treatments for hair loss and benign epididymal cyst (spermatocele) surgical management which often only benefit certain groups of patients in some particular medical circumstances.

The policies set out when and often where these treatments and procedures should be used and which patients would benefit medically from them.

A total of 113 policies inherited by NHS Cheshire and Merseyside from predecessor clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) are being reviewed during the lifetime of the programme. This is to remove any variation that exists between different CCG areas and to ensure they meet the most up to date medical evidence, guidance and best practice.

49 policies were harmonised and published in the first phase of this review in May 2023. In the second phase there were an additional 35 policies published in March 2024. This third phase brings the total of completed policies up to 109.

There are some additional policies that are yet to be harmonised. This work includes looking at the level of public involvement needed for each harmonised policy, including how we both share information and invite feedback where it is required. 

You can find all the policies that have been harmonised and approved so far on the NHS Cheshire and Merseyside website along with more information about the programme.

Anyone with comments or queries about the policy harmonisation review is asked to email them to dt-ci@cheshireandmerseyside.nhs.uk.