Performance

Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF)

GPs  work in partnership with the Department of Health to ensure that they are treating you properly and meeting agreed standards of care.

The Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) is the annual reward and payment programme detailing GP practice achievement results.

QOF is a voluntary process for all surgeries in England and was introduced as part of the GP health services contract with the NHS in 2004.

When QOF was first introduced, the following principles were agreed on where QOF standards should apply:

• where responsibility for ongoing management of the patient rests primarily with the GP and the primary care team
• where there is evidence of health benefits resulting from improved primary care
• where the disease is a priority in a number of the four nations.

QOF agreements change from year to year, you can read more about it on the NHS Employers website.

GP Outcome Standards

The NHS in London, working with GPs, has developed a set of standards, often known as indicators, for GP practices which give you the kind of information you need to make decisions about your healthcare. The standards cover areas like diagnosis, screening, vaccinations for children, and ease of getting appointments, making it easier for you to:

• see how effective your GP services are in areas of healthcare that matter to you
• understand what your practice is doing to meet the healthcare standards required by you and your family
• make a decision about registering with a practice that best suits your particular needs

The standards have been developed in partnership with doctors, nurses, general practice staff and patients.