GP initiative aims to prevent hospital admissions for millions of patients through strategic planning.

Plan for GPs to keep millions out of hospital Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The new scheme is being backed by £80m of funding By Philippa Roxby Health reporter Published on 17th April 2025 A scheme to aid GPs in providing care and guidance to patients, without the need for them to endure long waits in NHS hospitals, is set to be expanded in England, as announced by the government. GPs will collaborate closely with specialists to swiftly access expert advice for patients with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, menopause symptoms, and ear infections. Supported by £80m in funding, the scheme aims to assist two million people in receiving quicker and more convenient care within their local community by the conclusion of the 2025/26 period. Health Minister Karin Smyth emphasized that this initiative would "save time and prevent a large number of people from having to make unnecessary trips to the hospital." Part of the government's strategy to reduce lengthy NHS waiting lists and increase appointment availability for patients, it has pledged that 92% of NHS patients will have treatment within 18 weeks of referral to a consultant by the end of this parliamentary term. During the period between July and December 2024, the scheme redirected 660,000 treatments from hospitals to community settings, according to government figures. Dubbed 'Advice and Guidance', the initiative facilitates communication between GPs and hospital specialists prior to patients being placed on waiting lists, ensuring that tests and treatments are provided in the most convenient locations. For instance, individuals with tinnitus requiring ear wax removal are often referred to specialists when they could be assisted outside of hospital settings. Similarly, women seeking advice on HRT options could receive treatment in local hubs rather than waiting to consult with a gynaecologist. GP practices can claim £20 for each 'episode of care', comprising multiple interactions with specialists. The government's aim is to restructure the NHS and implement new approaches. Smyth stated, "This initiative exemplifies how we are saving patients time and alleviating pressure on critical NHS services in the process." Although reversing the neglect the NHS has faced in recent years will take time, the government's 'Plan for Change' has begun yielding positive outcomes, with waiting lists reduced by 219,000 since July and 1,500 new GPs employed. National Voices, representing health charities in England, stressed the importance of offering patients genuine choices regarding their treatment pathways. Sharon Brennan, Director of Policy, emphasized the need for clear communication about the service and its practical implications for patient care. The British Medical Association issued a statement saying, "Decades of underinvestment in general practice have been observed, and this initiative represents a crucial step towards recognizing the pivotal role of GPs and supporting practices in delivering enhanced care to patients within the community." The quest to reinstate the family doctor has only just commenced. The focus now must be on fulfilling the Secretary of State's pledge to finalize negotiations for a new GP contract within this parliamentary term to safeguard family GP services for the future. The association eagerly anticipates collaborating with the government to achieve this goal. Get in touch Have you been stuck on an NHS waiting list for an extensive period? Reach out to us. Tags: health, NHS, GPs, waiting lists, funding