The proposed abolition of Primary Care Trusts and transfer of their commissioning functions to GP consortia have been greeted with intense excitement by some GPs, and with extreme trepidation by others. This book explains what commissioning is and how to do it, enabling clinicians to flourish as commissioners in the new NHS. Some topics that will be familiar to readers, such as long term conditions management, patient safety and the wider determinants of health, are explored here from a commissioning perspective. Others which may be less familiar, such as how to delegate, how to improve productivity, management theories and the content of financial accounts, are explored in detail. Additional skills needed by commissioning GPs - fostering innovation, assertiveness and emotional competence as well as negotiation, presentation and even media management skills - are outlined in a clear and straightforward fashion, while the necessary attitudes involved are described with reference to the Nolan Principles of Public Life. A straightforward yet comprehensive guide, Effective GP Commissioning - Essential Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes will be essential for GPs, prospective GPs, and those with an interest in effective commissioning. ''A useful resource for all GPs whatever their level of engagement and indeed for non-clinicians also. Sunil Gupta is clearly a GP and business magpie who has an incredible ability to gather, organise and present useful information. The content of this book is well-researched linking considerable volumes of information in a very useful, constructive manner.'' - From the Foreword by Simon Gregory