PCNs were established in 2019 as part of the NHS Long Term Plan. In order to realise the ambitions of the NHS Long Term Plan. Initially focussed on reimbursement for additional roles, this has expanded into the delivery of additional services across the PCN area.
From our work with over 150 PCNs we are acutely aware of the issues that PCNs face as they mature and taken on new responsibilities and services.
As the number of ARRS roles increases, and the risk of VAT applying to the provision of non-exempt services or persons from an employing practice to another, more PCNs are considering setting up a PCN company to employ the ARRS roles, particularly where third party support such as a GP federation is not available. The availability of special NHS pension determination status has made this a more attractive option as well as the availability, providing certain conditions are met, to be a VAT cost sharing group allowing the PCN company to provide services or persons without a VAT consequence.
We work closely with specialist medical accountants who can advise PCNs on the VAT cost sharing arrangements. Our support here is mostly focussed on setting up PCN companies and the tailoring of the company documentation together with making NHS pension scheme applications and tailoring subcontract arrangements.
Our team of experts are led by partners who have been instrumental in designing PCN models (and their predecessor models) and advise on the following:
- PCN Network Agreement – Preparing, updating and advising on network schedules;
- PCN incorporation – setting up a PCN company to provide clinical, staff or management services;
- Collaboration arrangements between PCNs and PCNs and third parties;
- Clinical and commercial subcontracting;
- Data sharing/processing agreements;
- Employment advice including workforce sharing agreements; and
- Dispute resolution
