Recognition of ‘essential’ GP access in Infrastructure Strategy ‘great news’

The College has commented on the publication of the 10 Year UK Infrastructure Strategy, welcoming the Government’s commitment to ensure GP access for residents in new developments but making clear this will need to be alongside further investment in GP infrastructure. Professor Kamila Hawthorne, Chair of the RCGP, said:

“It’s great to see the Government has acknowledged having access to a GP surgery is essential for every new development. The RCGP has long advocated for this, recognising that general practice, located in the heart of the community, is crucial in alleviating pressures on the NHS when properly resourced. As communities expand, and as more care is expected to be shifted closer to home as part of the Government’s imminent 10 Year Health Plan, it is essential that patients have access to safe general practice care.

“Alongside this commitment, we need to continue to see further investment in GP infrastructure. Our last survey of members found that two in five GPs considered their premises unfit for purpose. This not only makes for a poor experience for both patients and practice staff, but it restricts the care and services a practice can provide. We’ve previously called for a £2 billion investment in general practice infrastructure, so that GPs have the facilities, equipment and technology to deliver the safe and timely care patients need.” 

Further information

RCGP press office: 0203 188 7659
press@rcgp.org.uk

Notes to editors

The Royal College of General Practitioners is a network of more than 54,000 family doctors working to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standards of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on education, training, research and clinical standards.