Harnessing the Potential of Primary Care Provider Collaboratives

Primary care provider collaboratives improve healthcare delivery by uniting services like general practice and pharmacy. However, they face challenges related to capacity, funding and the need for stronger relationships within the healthcare system

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on NHS Confederation

Primary care provider collaboratives unite various primary care service providers, creating a unique opportunity to deliver care closer to home. This term encompasses collaboration among providers of all sizes, including general practice, community pharmacy, optometry, dentistry and audiology. Many of these collaboratives have emerged in the past two years, often building on the successes of GP federations, while others operate through more informal arrangements.

So far, no national guidance has been established, and existing guidance on other types of collaboratives does not encompass their diverse membership. This lack of clarity has resulted in significant variation in the structure, functions, and operations of primary care provider collaboratives. Additionally, there has been limited research on their development and the factors necessary for their success.

Provider Engagement

To address this gap, the NHS Confederation’s Primary Care Network has engaged with primary care provider collaboratives to monitor their progress and identify the key factors needed for their success.

Capacity is a significant concern for collaboratives, as most operate with small teams and short-term funding for their roles. This limited capacity raises worries about becoming overextended, hindering their ability to reach their full potential.

Relationships are vital in primary care provider collaboratives, both among members and with the broader healthcare system. To realise their full potential, these collaboratives require support from local leaders, including targeted investment and resources, to ensure coordinated engagement with primary care and to leverage their expertise effectively.

The true potential of primary care collaboratives is evident in those that have matured over the past two years, having established strong relationships and infrastructure, or in those backed by robust GP federations.