The Doctors’ Association UK (DAUK) has unveiled a bold manifesto aimed at alleviating the strain on general practice within the NHS and enhancing patient outcomes
At their recent online briefing, DAUK’s GP committee outlined a comprehensive 10-point plan designed to relieve pressure on GPs, improve access, reduce mortality rates, lower hospital admissions, and enhance patient satisfaction.
DAUK’s manifesto advocates reallocating resources, including the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS), currently directed towards Pharmacy First and acute care hub pilots, amounting to £2 billion.
This strategic reallocation aims to enhance primary care capacity and reduce reliance on acute services.
Dr Lizzie Toberty, DAUK’s GP lead, emphasised the critical need for patients to have timely access to GPs who understand their needs, stating, “We need patients to be able to see a GP who knows them and understands their needs in a timely way wherever possible.”
She highlighted DAUK’s vision to restore general practice as the cornerstone of the NHS through practical, achievable solutions.
The manifesto also calls for improvements in GP-to-patient ratios, support for partnerships with limited liability, and development of career pathways for new GPs through fellowships and educational funds.
Additionally, DAUK stresses the importance of long-term planning for NHS estates and substantial upgrades in IT infrastructure to support general practice.
Dr Sarah Jacques, a GP based in Sussex and DAUK committee member, highlighted the overwhelming pressures faced by family doctors, including increased demand and workforce shortages.
Dr Jacques emphasised the critical role of general practice in the NHS, stating, “Without general practice, the NHS won’t survive.”
Dr Steve Taylor, a GP in Manchester and DAUK committee member, underscored the disparity in funding despite the significant workload of GPs, advocating for increased investment to match workload demands and ensure patient safety.
DAUK’s vice chair, Dr Ellen Welch, emphasised the need for a cross-party approach to NHS governance, stressing stability over short-term political agendas.
She stated, “We don’t need more reforms. We need stabilization of the NHS.”
