NHS interim report pledges better GP access

The interim report on the future of the NHS has pledged that patients are to have better access to GPs.

Improving the quality of patient care has been outlined as an essential goal by Lord Darzi who is carrying out the review.

A central element of the interim report, released this week, was that patients would have better access to GPs at weekends and evenings.

Health secretary Alan Johnson welcomed the report and outlined the proposals put in place.

“I am today announcing a major package of changes to improve access to GP services across the country so that more people can see a GP where they want to and at a time they want to. This is a massive investment in primary care provision and will benefit millions of patients across the country.”

The new package includes proposals to introduce a hundred new GP practices in areas of high demand.

There was also a pledge to open 150 new GP-run health centres, open seven days a week 8am to 8pm, which will offer a range of services.
The Darzi review was announced in the summer by Mr Johnson with the final report expected next year to mark the 60th anniversary of the NHS.