Jim Morris, Head of Strategic Policy Initiatives at DHSC, has shared a timely update on the evolving hospital access credentialing landscape.
Despite recent ministerial changes, the department remains committed to supporting industry-led self-regulation, echoing the direction set by Baroness Merron. DHSC is now actively engaging NHS England to define a clear ‘demand statement’ — a formal articulation of what the NHS expects from credentialing.
This is seen as a critical foundation for any future framework and will help align industry efforts with NHS priorities. Earlier work from the Academy of Healthcare Science is informing current discussions, particularly around the appropriate level of credentialing standards and the evidence base required.
There is ongoing debate across NHS Trusts and credentialing providers about how best to balance patient safety, cost, and administrative burden. Additionally, DHSC is exploring related work within NHS England on how Trusts manage relationships with providers and sales representatives, aiming to ensure alignment across initiatives.
Members are encouraged to share this update within their networks and remain engaged as the policy direction develops.
