This site is intended for health professionals only


BMA launches GP survey to build ‘much needed renaissance’ in 2015

The GPC is launching a major survey of general practice to understand GPs are working and what needs to change, and to inform BMA and political policy in the 2015 general election year.

The Future of General Practice 2015 survey will also collect information on the suitability of GP premises, uptake of federated working models and asks GPs’ views on the future of NHS contracts.

One question asks: ‘If the QOF was to be reduced or removed, how should the released funding be allocated?’ after NHS England pledged new powers for CCGs to opt out of the national scheme in favour of local quality initiatives.

GPC chair Dr Chaand Nagpaul, said that the ‘pivotal’ survey comes at a crucial time and will help general practice move from ‘crisis’ to ‘renaissance’.

Dr Nagpaul said: ‘[The survey] will help us send a clear message to politicians and policy makers in this election year, and will be a crucial opportunity for politicians to finally provide the backing that GP services need to be sustainable.’

He added: ‘It is vital at the start of 2015 that GPs take the time needed to fill in the survey. This is every GP’s chance to influence how the BMA’s GP committee takes forward its approach during this crucial year and help us to move from a crisis facing general practice to a much needed renaissance.’

Last year, RCGP chair Dr Maureen Baker urged medical students to consider a future in general practice because government pledges to boost funding and tackle workforce mean ‘the future is bright’ for the profession.