The current system of GPs operating within strict geographical boundaries can be severely restrictive and limit patients’ choice of doctor, especially if they live in poorer areas, health secretary Andy Burnham said this morning. He has announced a consultation on new plans to given them more choice when registering with a general practice.
The health secretary claims that a significant minority of people would like to change their GP but are unable to under the present system. He acknowledges that it is important, for many patients, to be registered with a local GP so their doctor can visit them at home and help co-ordinate care with local health professionals.
However, Mr Burnham says that some people would prefer to register with a practice closer to where they work, or one that is closer to home, that is open for longer hours or that offers more services. In other cases, people may wish to remain registered with their current, trusted practice when they move house.
In its consultation the Department of Health is seeking views on a wide range of proposals, in particular around the issues involved in arranging home visits, co-ordination of community-based services, safeguarding access for local residents, and access to hospital and specialist treatment.
Mr Burnham said: “Giving people more choice of GP services will help drive up standards and improve quality.
“We know that to make this work some changes will be needed, for example how we organise home visits for those people who choose to register with a practice further away from where they live. That’s why we would like to hear from patients, GPs and practice staff with their views on how the new system should work and how we ensure patients have a wider and more meaningful choice of GP practice.”
“We have already greatly improved access to GP services and most people are satisfied or very satisfied with their GP but in a great NHS, everybody should be able to choose the best care for themselves and their families. That means the freedom to choose their GP and not be faced with artificial restrictions, like practice boundaries, that limit their choice.”