Getting a GP appointment at 8 am could soon be a thing of the past.
A new deal between the government and the British Medical Association (BMA) aims to reform general practice contracts by reducing regulations and targets.
One major change, effective October this year, will allow patients to request appointments online, freeing up phone lines for urgent inquiries and ending the 8 am rush to secure an appointment by phone.
This reform is part of a larger effort to address the years of underinvestment in GP services, with an additional £889 million allocated to reverse a decade-long funding decline.
GP surgeries are the gateway to the NHS, where patients must go to access essential treatments.
The BMA calls this deal a crucial first step in restoring general practice, though doctors are urging the government to commit to discussions about a new national contract for GPs.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting stated, “Over the past decade, GP funding has fallen behind other NHS sectors, while targets have increased.
“This government is cutting red tape and investing £889 million to help GPs, in return for more patients being able to book appointments online.”
Dr. Julian Spinks, a GP in the Medway area, added: “Improving the online system is a step forward, but until more GPs are recruited, the problems will persist.
“People now expect instant service, but healthcare can’t always meet that demand.”
“An online system is already in practice and it does help relieve pressure on practices”.
“The problem at the moment with the 8am scramble is that the person who clicks call at the right time will get an appointment.”
“The unlucky ones can be left on hold, sometimes a very long time, before being left dissapointed”.