Definition: PCTs are a very important part of the NHS, and they get about 80% of the total NHS budget. PCTs decide what health services a local community needs, and they are responsible for providing them. They must ensure that there are enough services for people within their local area, and that the services are accessible. These services include: GPs, Dentists, Pharmacists, Opticians, NHS Direct, and NHS walk-in centres. PCTs make decisions about the type of services that hospitals provide and are responsible for making sure that the quality of service is high enough. They also control funding for hospitals.

Category: adult social care

Credit: Department of Health

Source: Glossary of Adult Social Care Terms