ABSTRACT
The Consortium has shown itself to have many advantages over conventional 'stand alone' fundholding. Common aims mean greater purchasing power and closer working links are possible between the various member fundholders, especially in purchasing. The regular meetings of the Consortium members offer a forum for the exchange of views on many issues, but especially those of service quality. The Consortium is able to protect the individuality of practices. A Consortium also addresses locality issues effectively because practices can combine with neighbours to purchase services in ways that are appropriate to their needs and geography. Relating to Health Commissions and integrated purchasing authorities is going to be one of the most difficult problems of the next stage of the National Health Service (NHS) reforms. The passing of the command and control ethos from the management of the NHS is likely to prove difficult for many. Most fundholders have at least reasonable working relationships with local NHS Trusts.
