Revamping the GP contract for 2024/25

The recent consultation on the GP contract for 2024/25 has concluded, with final arrangements now in place for the upcoming financial year. For practice managers, understanding the updates to the GP contract for 2024/25 is crucial for ensuring smooth operations, efficient resource allocation, and optimal patient care within their practices

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

General practice remains integral to the NHS, with the contributions of GPs and primary care staff highly regarded. Over the past year, NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care have carefully considered feedback from professionals and patients, aiming to simplify processes and provide greater flexibility to practices.

Easing administrative burdens

In response to calls for simplification, measures have been introduced to reduce bureaucracy for practices. Thirty-two out of the seventy-six Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) indicators will be suspended or income protected, aiming to streamline operations.

Boosting financial freedom

Acknowledging economic pressures faced by practices, financial flexibilities have been enhanced. The QOF aspiration payment will increase from 70% to 80%, while the Capacity and Access Payment (CAP) will see a £46m rise to £292m, supporting innovative models to meet local patient needs.

Expanding staffing options

Recognising the success of the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) in expanding teams, enhanced nurses will now be included, alongside the removal of caps on various direct patient care roles.

Simplifying DES requirements

To grant practices and PCNs more autonomy, DES requirements are being simplified. Multiple service specifications will be replaced by a single overarching one, empowering practices to operate more efficiently.

Enhancing patient access

Efforts to improve patient access include reviewing data from digital telephony systems to better understand overall demand, ensuring efficient service delivery, particularly in winter months.

The NHS will also continue to support individuals currently enrolled in the Fellowship Scheme, which has received positive feedback, throughout 2024/25. Considerations are underway regarding the future of recruitment and retention schemes as we explore the most effective methods of supporting general practice.

The revamped GP contract for 2024/25 reflects a concerted effort to address the needs of both practitioners and patients, streamlining processes and enhancing flexibility. With these measures in place, the NHS looks forward to a more efficient and patient-centric approach to primary care delivery in the coming year.