As the architect of the NHS 111 service and RCGP lead on urgent and emergency care, Dr Agnelo Fernandes is undoubtedly one of the most influential GPs around.
The Croydon GP has stressed that wider GP access is unlikely to relieve the burden on A&E and has been critical of the use of NHS funding to prop up hospitals.
Understanding patient flow and investment in general practice is what’s needed, he says.
Initially a lone voice in defending NHS 111, he now has the ear of the politicians and the profession. Let’s hope he also has some of the answers.
Related articles:
Dr Agnelo Fernandes: ‘If you want sustainable change, invest more in GPs’
NHS 111 overhaul to ensure service ‘definitively manages’ calls
GPs not to blame for pressure on A&E, says NHS England adviser
