About LSHP
History
The London Sexual Health Programme (LSHP) was set up in 2005 by the 5 SHA Chief Executives in order to lead Sexual Health Commissioning and improve Sexual Health outcomes. Its initial aim was to deliver the London Sexual Health Framework (2004) that set the Quality framework and standards to improve Sexual Health in London. Since then, the London Sexual Health Programme has moved within the umbrella of the London SCG, continuing work for PCTs. It has achieved many outcomes and firsts which will be detailed in this document.
What LSHP do
The London Sexual Health Programme supports commissioners and clinicians to improve the sexual health and well being of Londoners. The programme works to promote efficient and effective commissioning that ensures high quality, open access, Sexual and Reproductive Health Services to prevent and treat sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies. LSHP also acts as a hub and umbrella agency to link stakeholders and assure equity, quality, consistency and integration at all levels of care from across primary, community, secondary and specialised care.
The LSHP gives PCTs the opportunity to strengthen the commissioning of Sexual Health services. The work is based on evidence of effectiveness and best practice so that PCT commissioning is “done once and done well” to avoid duplication of effort and resources. It provides consistency of commissioning to achieve better outcomes with equitable access and provision of services.
To name but a few successes:
- LSHP negotiated a London condom scheme, saving £3 million in three years. (2008-2011)
- The LSHP and Government Offices of London Teenage Pregnancy Unit worked jointly to reduce under-18 conception rate and improve sexual health of young people in region.
- The LSHP support to PCTs and Clusters has transformed London into the top performing SHA in reducing teenage conceptions and in the National Chlamydia Screening Programme.
- They negotiated, on behalf of PCTs, a reduction in HIV drug prices resulting in an annual saving of £300,000.
- The LSHP supported PCTs to achieve the London HIV prevention performance target with commissioning best practice and learning sets so that over 60% achieved their trajectories.
- LSHP provided the leadership and support to PCTs who have delivered a 25% reduction in late diagnosis of HIV over a three year period (2008-2011) resulting in the saving of some £700,000.