The general practice workforce is currently in crisis. In 2021/2022, there was an estimated shortage of 4200 full-time equivalent, fully qualified, permanently employed GPs in England, with recent surveys suggesting that 71% of GPs in the UK find their job ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ stressful. And the near future looks to be potentially worse — the Royal College of General Practitioner’s 2022 survey reports that 42% of GPs in England are likely to leave the profession in the next 5 years, and The Health Foundation predict that, without any policy action, there could be a one in two shortfall of GPs by 2030/2031.1,2 In an article published in the British Journal of General Practice, we discuss the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan for general practice and assess whether it can provide the policy solutions to mitigate this workforce crisis.
As the NHS braces for a challenging winter season, it is grappling with a "quad-demic" of health emergencies caused by influenza, Covid-19, norovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This confluence of viral threats poses a significant risk to public health in the UK as well as putting strain on healthcare resources, emphasising the importance of preventive measures to safeguard public health. Public health measures such a vaccination and good personal hygiene are pivotal in reducing the impact of these illnesses, particularly for vulnerable groups. The Four Viruses: What Are They? Influenza: A highly contagious respiratory infection that causes significant illness each winter. It can lead to severe complications, particularly in the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions. Covid-19: Though its most acute phase has passed, Covid-19 remains a concern, especially as new variants of SA...
Comments