NHSE to slash targets in latest performance regime overhaul

NHS England is revising its new performance framework yet again, with a focus on slashing 77 indicators down to core priorities.

Its board signed off a version of the NHS Performance Assessment Framework just six weeks ago for consultation.

But HSJ understands engagement on that iteration was delayed as officials wanted to overhaul it again.

The March version moved integrated care boards’ regulatory performance management role to regional teams, and promised to “prevent providers being bombarded with conflicting instructions”. But it still listed 77 “delivery metrics”, covering operating objectives; finance and productivity; public health and patient outcomes; quality and inequalities.

New proposals expected this week will include significantly stripping the measures down, to primarily focus on headline performance and delivery asks in the 2025-26 planning guidance. That document axed numerous targets and asked,  which health and social care secretary Wes Streeting said would allow more local autonomy.

The new version will also seek to further clarify the changing roles of ICBs, providers, regions and the centre. 

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Source: HSJ, 12 May 2025