The Patients Association recognises the immense pressure GPs and general practice are under, but our focus must be on patients.  

It is patients who bear the brunt of any industrial action in the NHS. 

The BMA claims the planned action by GPs targets NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care, and not patients. But it is hard to see how limiting appointments and changing referral processes won't directly affect patients' care. 

The Patients Association calls on both the BMA and the Government to resolve this dispute urgently. Patients can't afford to be caught in the middle of this conflict, over which they have no say or any control.  

Industrial action in general practice risks further damaging patients’ trust in the health service. Less than a quarter of people are satisfied with the NHS according to this year’s British Social Attitudes Survey. 

Our recent survey found three out of 10 (30%) people struggled to get GP appointments. If GPs limit appointments to 25 a day, even more people may be unable to see a GP. This, in turn, could lead to people delaying seeking medical help or turning to A&E, where services across the country are struggling to meet demand.

We welcome the Government’s decision today to free up money in the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme to allow practices to hire newly qualified GPs. It should help the odd situation where some doctors can't find jobs, yet patients struggle to get appointments. 

As practices begin taking action, it is crucial they clearly communicate any service changes to patients and provide clear and up-to-date information and guidance on accessing care.

1st August 2024