18 December 2012
RCGP Press Comment on NCB Document
RCGP media comment on NHS Commissioning Board document Everyone Counts: Planning for Patients 2013-14
RCGP Chair Dr Clare Gerada said: "We are concerned that this will create unrealistic expectations, especially at a time when financial constraints are placing a severe strain on our NHS and the care that we can provide for our patients.
"We fully support patients having more influence in their healthcare, but the reality is that GPs are increasingly having to make very tough and unpopular decisions. We must make sure that they do not end up being scapegoats for the rationing that lies ahead as less money is invested.
"In times of austerity it is important that we invest in what we know works best for patients - general practice. The focus should be on targeting resources on those who need them most, and on collaboration and cooperation, not competition."
ENDS
Further Information
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Notes
The Royal College of General Practitioners is a network of more than 46,000 family doctors working to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standards of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on education, training, research and clinical standards.