NHS England Boss Pledges to Invest in General Practice

Whilst the Workers of England supports the continued investment in General Practice it is the level of investment in NHS England’s frontline staff that we want increasing; this may not necessarily mean higher wages but instead may mean better working conditions or benefits.

Commitment to Front-Line Staff and Retention

Retaining good staff within the NHS should be a priority, and their expertise and commitment to health care should not be lost to private health firms.

Strong Primary Care Remains Essential

Simon Stevens, Chief Executive of NHS England, stated at a King’s Fund conference that there is “no version of reality where we don’t need stronger primary care.” He confirmed that NHS England would continue to invest in general practice regardless of the general election outcome. Stevens reaffirmed that the Five Year Forward View remains the strategic blueprint for improving primary care services.

Progress So Far

NHS England recently hailed an 8% increase in general practice funding in its March update. Stevens explained that although real-terms spending on primary care had declined before the formation of NHS England, the organisation has “put a kink in the downturn” and is committed to continuing to improve that situation through the GP Forward View.

Looking Ahead to 2017/18

Mr. Stevens indicated that 2017/18 would be a sleeves rolled up year, with significant change across the NHS and general practice. He looks forward to collaborating with healthcare professionals to deliver these priorities within the constraints set by the new government.