Commissioning (Service Restrictions) Policy

The commissioning (service restriction) policy explains how NHS Essex decides which treatments and services it funds.

NHS resources are limited. NHS Essex must make sure funding is used fairly and provides the greatest benefit for local people.

The policy sets out how decisions are made about treatments, services and access criteria.

For full details, download the accessible Word version of the policy below.

Why this policy is needed

NHS Essex is responsible for planning and funding healthcare services for people living in Essex.

Some treatments are available to everyone who needs them. Other treatments have specific eligibility criteria based on clinical evidence and patient need.

The commissioning (service restriction) policy helps ensure decisions are:

fair
consistent
evidence-based
transparent
focused on improving health outcomes

How commissioning decisions are made

NHS Essex uses clinical evidence, national guidance and local health needs when making decisions.

The organisation also considers:

patient outcomes
value for money
health inequalities
available NHS resources

All decisions follow established governance and approval processes.

Treatments with access criteria

Some treatments are only available when specific clinical criteria are met.

These criteria help ensure NHS funding is used where it will have the greatest benefit.

Healthcare professionals assess whether patients meet the required criteria before treatment is approved.

Individual funding requests

If a patient does not meet the usual criteria, their clinician may be able to submit an Individual Funding Request.

This allows NHS Essex to consider whether there are exceptional clinical circumstances that justify funding.

Equality and fairness

NHS Essex is committed to reducing health inequalities and providing fair access to healthcare.

Commissioning decisions take account of equality legislation, clinical need and the needs of local communities.

Policy review

This policy was approved on 1 April 2026 and is due for review in April 2028.