Health scrutiny
Under the Health and Social Care Act 2001, local authority scrutiny has the power to:
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review and scrutinise the planning, provision and operation of health services in the area
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require officers of local NHS bodies to attend meetings and answer questions
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make reports and recommendations to local NHS bodies and expect a response within 28 days
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set up joint health scrutiny committees with other local authorities and delegate powers to another local authority
Meanwhile, NHS Trusts have a statutory duty to:
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provide information
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consult on any proposed substantial developments or variations in the provision of services
And local authority scrutiny can refer a consultation to the Secretary of State if it considers:
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the consultation has been inadequate in relation to the content or the amount of time allowed
or -
that a proposal would not be in the interests of the health service
Health and Social Care Act 2001 (See Section 7)
The legislation which gave scrutiny the power to review and
scrutinise health services and to make reports and recommendations
to NHS bodies.
Local Authority (Overview and Scrutiny Committees
Health Scrutiny Functions) Statutory Instrument No.3048
These regulations, issued by the Secretary of State for
Health, detail the duties of NHS bodies and the powers of scrutiny
committees.
Overview and Scrutiny of Health – Guidance
(Department of Health 2003)
Provides advice and recommendations on carrying out scrutiny
of health services.