NEWS: Workload Crisis ‘Putting Patient Safety At Risk’, GPs Warn

Nearly three-quarters of GPs say patient safety is being jeopardised by overwhelming workload pressures, as new polling highlights deep concern over resources, time and funding across general practice

As reported by The Royal College of General Practitioners, patient safety is being compromised by the pressures facing general practice, according to new polling released by the Royal College of GPs (RCGP) to coincide with its Annual Primary Care Conference in Newport.

The survey found that 73% of GPs believe their workload is putting patient safety at risk, while 58% say they lack the time to adequately assess and treat patients during appointments. A further 57% report not having enough time to build the patient relationships needed for high-quality care.

The RCGP said the figures laid bare the scale of the workload crisis in general practice and warned that urgent action on funding and resources is essential as the government rolls out its 10-Year Health Plan.

GPs also raised serious concerns about the implementation of neighbourhood working models.

• 65% cited a lack of clarity over the role of GPs within these systems.
• 65% were unclear about how funding will be allocated.
• 48% pointed to insufficient resources for GP leadership.
• 57% said there is not enough capacity or support to make the new model sustainable.

To address these challenges, the College is calling for a sustained increase in core GP funding, including the introduction of a Primary Care Investment Standard to guarantee annual funding growth.