Nearly Half of England's GP Surgeries Strike: A Historic Challenge to Healthcare Funding

In a significant and unprecedented move, nearly half of England's GP surgeries have initiated industrial action, marking the first such occurrence in six decades. A recent survey revealed that 46% of GP practices are engaged in work-to-rule actions, with one in four limiting their patient consultations to just 25 a day. This collective response comes in the wake of dissatisfaction over funding increases, which family doctors argue are insufficient to meet the rising demands of healthcare. Earlier this month, family doctors voted overwhelmingly in favor of taking action against the government’s decision to raise their budget by only 1.9% this year. While the newly formed government has promised a budget increase to 6% for the 2024-25 period, many practitioners feel that this does not adequately address the chronic underfunding issues that have plagued the NHS for years. NHS leaders have expressed concerns about the potential disruptions this industrial action could cause to healthcare services. The disruption is expected to extend until Christmas and possibly beyond into 2025, leading to an influx of patients seeking care in hospitals, A&E units, and mental health services. Dr. Amanda Doyle, the national primary care director, has indicated that the NHS is preparing for a “worst-case scenario,” warning that even 999 services could be affected. The survey conducted by Pulse magazine, which sampled 283 GP partners across various practices, reveals a growing sentiment among doctors that further action may be necessary. Notably, 20% of the respondents indicated they plan to engage in collective action in the future, while another 22% are contemplating the same. Only a mere 7% ruled out any form of action. The options for industrial action available to GP partners include capping patient numbers, ceasing non-contracted work, and overriding prescription restrictions when deemed necessary for patient care. Alarmingly, half of those surveyed expressed a willingness to escalate their actions, which could result in full strikes and the temporary closure of practices. While acknowledging the pressures facing GPs, Rachel Power, chief executive of the Patients Association, emphasized the adverse effects this may have on patient access to care. “For years now, patients have found it difficult to get appointments at their general practice,” she said, stressing the need for a resolution between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the government that does not compromise patient care. In response to the ongoing situation, Dr. Doyle emphasized the importance of ensuring that patient needs are met, stating that the NHS is committed to addressing the current challenges within general practice. She reassured the public that the impacts of the industrial action would be closely monitored. As the standoff between healthcare providers and the government continues, the future of GP services in England hangs in the balance, leaving many to ponder the implications for patient care in a system already under strain.