Purpose

A review of the service model was planned in conjunction with the NHS long-term plan and local healthcare services provided by WVT, this work has been delayed, but is due to commence in 23.24.

COVID-19 has affected the demand for this service since identification of
Smoking as an indicator of more severe disease. The service has been opened up to all residents of Herefordshire where previously it was targeted. It is important that we continue to provide this service.

Behavioural support is provided by healthy lifestyle trainers (in-house); this element of the contract is for the supply of nicotine replacement therapy. Generally, this is only available from pharmacies and this is the most convenient method of obtaining NRT for service users – increasing engagement and success rates.

An extension of 1 year to the current AQP framework would allow for the
uninterrupted continued provision of NRT and also the increase in suppliers to the framework which is important as some areas of the county do not currently have a pharmacy signed up to the AQP framework agreement.

This extension period would allow the service to continue to be made available universally following the covid-19 pandemic and beyond allowing for a review of the service delivery model in 23.24.