GP focus project under way

  A project that could lead to a radical change in the way GP services are delivered in Scotland has been launched. At least 15 practices serving some 80,000 people will take part in the trial, which is examining how the GP role can be refocused away from tasks that could be done more appropriately by other health professionals. The project is being jointly led by BMA Scotland GPs committee, Inverclyde Health and Social Care Partnership, the health board, and the Scottish Government. Under the scheme, which is being tested in Inverclyde, part of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, practices will work in clusters to improve planning and use of staff, and to enhance links to other health and social services. The idea is that GPs will see only those who need their help, with other patients being diverted to others in the wider primary care team, such as nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals. SGPC chair Alan McDevitt said the project was exploring how best to support GPs, and to allow them to spend more time with people who need their skills. ‘Improving access for patients to a wider group of health professionals should also mean that it is easier to see a GP when necessary,’ he said. ‘We are looking to implement measures that will ensure the sustainability of general practice, reduce the workload burden on GPs and allow them to use their skills to improve outcomes for patients.’   Changing roles Health, well-being and sport secreta...
Source: BMA News - Category: UK Health Source Type: news