Plans to reduce red tape by cutting unnecessary data collections across the NHS will save millions by releasing administrative and clerical resources to better support front line patient care.

The consultation A fundamental review of data returns runs from 30th August to 22nd November. It proposes that up to 25% of all current data returns commissioned by the Department of Health and its arms length bodies should be discontinued. This would lead to a reduction in burden on the NHS of approximately £10million.

Over 300 separate data collections commissioned by the Department of Health and its arms length bodies were assessed as to how they impact on and improve patient and clinical care.

Patient groups, research organisations, academic institutions and NHS trusts are now being asked for their views on proposals to streamline data collections across health and social care.

A second phase of work will be carried out to examine how remaining data returns can be rationalised. The aim is for data to be collected and processed efficiently and for any burden on information providers to be kept to a minimum.

The consultation runs from 30 August to 22 November 2011.

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