In an effort to achieve greater financial stability and efficiency, NHS Trusts and Health Boards throughout the UK are embarking on an ambitious journey to reduce agency spending by a remarkable 30% over the next two years. This monumental task requires innovative strategies and partnerships that can help streamline processes, cut costs, and ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services. One notable solution that is gaining traction involves collaborating with expert partners like Plus Us, who specialise in reviewing supply chains and driving significant cost savings.
In this blog, we will delve into the intricacies of this approach and explore how NHS Trusts can leverage it to achieve their agency spending reduction goals.
The Challenge at Hand – Reduce Spend & Increase Savings
Agency workers have long been an essential component of healthcare staffing, assisting NHS Trusts in meeting fluctuating patient demands. However, the considerable costs associated with agency staffing have prompted healthcare organisations to seek alternative and innovative solutions that balance quality patient care with prudent financial management.
Collaborating with Plus Us – Blueprint for Success
At Plus Us we offer a two-pronged approach that begins with an in-depth review of the existing supply chain. By examining the current agency network, we are able to identify areas for improvement and potential cost-saving opportunities. This thorough analysis ensures that the agency network is optimised for efficiency and value. One standout feature of Plus Us is their HMRC-approved VAT saving model, which has already saved clients an impressive £7.72 million in the first six months of this year. This success story highlights the potential for remarkable savings when the right strategies are implemented.
The Role of the Agency Engagement Manager
A key aspect of the Plus Us partnership is the inclusion of an Agency Engagement Manager. They will lead a re-procurement exercise, meticulously mapping out a robust supply chain. This chain is composed of local, regional, and national agencies that align with the specific staffing requirements of the NHS Trust/Health Board. The Agency Engagement Manager ensures that each selected agency meets the highest standards of value and compliance. This approach not only enhances the quality of staffing but also optimises expenditure for maximum efficiency, ensuring you get the best value.
Empowering Control & Visibility over Agency Spend & Usage
Part of the Plus Us offering includes access to our Workforce Manager and Agency Engagement portal. This powerful tool equips the NHS with the means to effectively manage their temporary workforce. The portal’s intuitive interface allows for seamless monitoring and allocation of agency staff, leading to better resource utilisation and cost management. One of the platform’s standout features is its comprehensive reporting and analytics capabilities. These insights empower NHS Trusts to make informed decisions about their temporary staffing operations, fostering a data-driven approach to workforce management.
A New Horizon for the NHS
The journey to reduce agency spending is a formidable challenge, but with innovative solutions like those offered by Plus Us, the NHS can achieve this. By leveraging our expertise in supply chain review, cost savings, and efficient workforce management, we provide a holistic strategy that aligns with the long-term goals of the NHS. The potential savings, improved quality of staffing, and access to advanced analytics make this partnership an invaluable asset in the pursuit of financial stability and excellence in patient care. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, embracing such innovative approaches is not just a choice – it’s a necessity.
To gain further insight into how your trust can enhance its financial efficiency and make strategic fiscal choices, connect with the Plus Us team. We’ve already contributed significantly to the NHS’s bottom line, saving a total of £51.88 million in agency spending during the first half of the year.