Integrated Insourcing Model
Trusted integrated insourcing across the NHS
Clinically-led and grounded
in strong governance
NCI’s Integrated Insourcing Model (IIM) is designed to do two things exceptionally well: deliver immediate, safe clinical capacity and create sustainable service improvement that endures after we leave.
It is clinically led, grounded in strong governance, and built on genuine partnership with NHS teams.
Our Foundation
Clinically led services.
Every programme is directed by experienced clinical leads who work directly with Trust clinical counterparts to maintain clinical standards, patient safety and alignment to local pathways and national guidance. Our leadership approach mirrors the NHS, supported by ex-NHS professionals across recruitment, operations and service leadership.
Governance first.
Good governance sits at the heart of what we do, informing how we plan, deliver and report. We align to Trust policies and reporting frameworks so that insourced activity is transparent, auditable and compliant. Strong governance is a key pillar for sustainable healthcare services.
Values that shape behaviour.
- Fairness for patients, our people and partner Trusts
- Transparency from commercial practice through to clinical reporting
- Trust built through reliability, open communication and measurable outcomes. These values underpin every engagement and are central to how we form long-term relationships.
What makes our Integrated Insourcing Model different
Traditional insourcing often focuses narrowly on throughput. IIM goes further by combining backlog reduction with structured improvement, knowledge sharing and operational engagement.
The aim is not simply to clear lists but to help resolve the underlying constraints that caused them. We act as a critical friend with real-world NHS experience, offering fresh perspectives into existing improvement workstreams while supporting delivery on the ground.
How the Model Works:
01.
High-impact clinical capacity
We deliver high-productivity clinics and theatre lists without compromising safety or patient experience. Sessions are planned to maximise completed patient journeys and support recovery of RTT and DM01 performance. This high-impact activity is provided as standard within IIM.
02.
Dedicated clinical leadership
A named NCI clinical lead partners with the Trust’s clinical lead throughout mobilisation and delivery. Their role is to assure clinical quality, support case discussion where needed and maintain alignment with local pathways. The clinical lead is visible, accountable and available, ensuring oversight from start to finish.
03.
Operational pathway management engagement
We collaborate with operational teams on scheduling, patient booking, template build and day-to-day flow. We recognise that every element of elective care feeds the pathway, so we help review resources and micro-processes to identify where efficiencies can be made.
04.
Structured efficiency feedback
Alongside delivery, we provide formalised feedback on clinical and operational efficiency. This covers bottlenecks, pathway variation, documentation and coding touchpoints, clinic configuration and opportunities to apply high-intensity approaches where appropriate. Insights are pragmatic, respectful of local context and mindful that change can be uncomfortable for people.
05.
Engagement in ongoing productivity streams
Where Trusts have live improvement programmes, we contribute as a supportive partner, offering additional capacity, governance input and a fresh point of view to help those programmes succeed. We do not replace internal teams. Instead, we slot in alongside them to accelerate delivery of agreed objectives.
06.
Partnership approach
We aim to solve problems, not prolong them. Our preferred outcome is a stronger local service that relies less on insourcing in the future. That requires straightforward communication, clear roles, and shared accountability with Trust colleagues in clinical, operational and corporate teams. We bring a balanced blend of capacity delivery and consultative support so that immediate gains translate into lasting improvement.
What you can expect during an engagement
Mobilisation.
Joint planning of scope, patient cohorts, pathway alignment, clinic templates and information requirements. Named clinical and operational contacts on both sides. Risk and mitigation agreed before go-live.
Delivery.
Safe, efficient clinics and lists delivered by experienced teams. Real-time issue escalation routed through clinical leads and operational managers. Continuous attention to patient experience and data quality.
Learning and improvement.
Short, focused feedback loops and a consolidated end-of-programme report covering efficiency, pathway opportunities and suggested next steps for sustained performance. Where a Trust has existing workstreams, we contribute evidence and options to support decision-making.
Governance & Assurance
Alignment to local clinical governance meetings and reporting
Clear auditable trails for activity, outcomes and incident reporting
Transparent commercial conduct, with performance and delivery reported openly
Consistent application of evidence-based practices and safety standards
These assurance features are embedded from mobilisation through to close-down.
Where our Integrated Insourcing Model is applied
IIM is flexible across a wide range of specialties and settings, enabling single-specialty programmes or multi-specialty initiatives according to local need, for example: General Surgery, Gynaecology, Upper and Lower GI, Ophthalmology, Plastic Surgery, Trauma and Orthopaedics, Urology, Neurology, Dermatology, Anaesthetics, Breast Surgery and Breast Radiology, Colorectal, Endoscopy, ENT, Gastroenterology, Vascular, Oral and Maxillofacial, Respiratory, Cardiology and Paediatrics.
Why Trusts choose NCI’s IIM
- Immediate backlog reduction plus lasting value. Backlog reduction paired with practical changes that help prevent future backlogs.
- Clinical credibility. Programmes led by seasoned clinical leaders with deep NHS experience.
- Operational realism. Support that respects local constraints and the realities of elective recovery.
A critical friend. Constructive challenge, fresh perspective and respectful collaboration with internal improvement teams.
Booking & Scheduling Team
NCI’s dedicated booking and scheduling team can be integrated into the trusts existing service infrastructure.
Our booking and scheduling team can work in collaboration with trusts schedulers to ensure seamless alignment with patient pathway requirements.
Our team are able to follow strict and documented protocols for patient appointment scheduling, ensuring compliance with Referral to Treatment (RTT) guidelines. DNA reduction strategies can be implemented, including real-time appointment reminders via SMS and outbound call verification. Weekly performance audits will track scheduling efficiency, patient adherence, and service utilisation rates. We will integrate a staff member into their existing booking & scheduling team, who will work collaboratively with trust staff. This allows them to ensure adequate quality training on trust systems and maintain appropriate patient pathways.
Mobilisation Process
Support
Services
The Operations division will ensure all support services are mobilised and optimised prior to service launch, overseeing patient bookings, pharmacy logistics, health records transfer as well as equipment and facilities.
Communications
Effective communication is key to building strong partnerships. Our Service Delivery Manager will keep you informed at every step of the service launch process, ensuring that we are aligned with your expectations and needs.
Operations
The Operations division will oversee all logistical aspects, guaranteeing that resources and personnel are optimally allocated for a successful and efficient service launch.
Commercial
The commercial division will work diligently to ensure that all contractual and financial aspects are transacted, transparent, and tailored to meet your unique needs. This includes: SLA Agreements, PO retrieval, Invoicing, Pricing etc.
Seamless Integration
At NCI, we work hand in hand with NHS trusts, fully aligning with local governance, policies, and IT systems to create a transparent and efficient workflow. Our integration approach is designed to provide accurate, data-driven reporting, enabling informed decision-making at every stage of the pathway.
Standards & Management Info
Client Feedback
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“Working with NCI has enabled us to deliver ENT care more efficiently, giving patients quicker access without compromising quality.”
Kenny Naughton
Care Group Director of Planned Care – Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust