Patients with the greatest medical needs should have access to the same GP for every appointment, according to new government plans. Financial incentives will be offered to GPs who deliver consistent care and focus on preventing serious illnesses such as heart disease and managing high blood pressure early. These initiatives form part of a proposed overhaul of the GP contract in England, with the government allocating an additional £889 million to the existing budget.

The British Medical Association (BMA) has expressed cautious optimism, acknowledging the potential financial relief for struggling practices. With GP surgeries currently operating under work-to-rule conditions, the BMA sees the proposal as a possible lifeline. The government’s aims include reducing administrative burdens, offering more flexibility in staffing, improving electronic patient access, and ensuring continuity of care for those with complex or long-term conditions.

This initiative aligns with previous promises to ease access to named GPs and eliminate the scramble for early-morning appointments. The Royal College of GPs welcomed the funding boost and reduction of bureaucratic pressures but emphasised the need for further progress. BMA representatives echoed these sentiments, noting the financial strain caused by rising national insurance costs and urging collaboration to tackle ongoing business challenges.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting called for an end to the current industrial action and urged GPs to work with the government to restore NHS stability. While pharmacists have criticised the focus on GP contracts amid delays in their own negotiations, the government insists these measures will rebuild trust in primary care and improve patient outcomes. The final contract is expected in the spring.