The GP contract agreement for 2020/21 has undergone some significant changes. These updates aim to improve patient access to healthcare services and provide general practices with additional support and resources. Let`s take a closer look at the key changes in the GP contract agreement.
Improved Access to Primary Care
Patients can now access primary care services more easily, with extended opening hours and more telephone consultations. General practices are required to offer appointments outside of traditional working hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends. This change is expected to benefit patients who may struggle to attend appointments during regular working hours.
Expanded Workforce Capacity
The GP contract agreement also focuses on expanding the capacity of the primary care workforce. Additional funding will be provided to support the recruitment of clinical pharmacists, social prescribers, and physician associates. These allied healthcare professionals will work alongside GPs to support patients with their health and wellbeing needs.
Increased Investment in Digital Technology
Digital technology is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, and the GP contract agreement reflects this. GPs will receive additional funding to help them implement digital solutions that improve patient care. This might include video consultations, online appointment booking, and digital health records.
Greater Focus on Prevention and Early Intervention
Prevention and early intervention are key priorities for the NHS, and the GP contract agreement aligns with this focus. The contract includes a new requirement for general practices to provide health checks for patients between the ages of 40 and 74. This will help identify and manage health risks earlier and prevent the development of chronic conditions.
Support for Quality Improvement
Finally, the GP contract agreement provides funding to support quality improvement within general practices. This funding can be used to develop new clinical pathways, improve staff training, and enhance patient engagement programs. By investing in quality improvement, general practices can deliver better outcomes for their patients and improve the overall quality of care.
In conclusion, the GP contract agreement for 2020/21 is a significant update that reflects the changing needs of the healthcare system. With a focus on improving access, expanding capacity, embracing digital technology, preventing health issues, and investing in quality improvement, this agreement has the potential to deliver better outcomes for patients and support general practices as they deliver essential healthcare services.