Government says it wants GPs to further improve

The government wants to ensure GP practices deliver further improvements in patient care, it has been asserted.

Health minister Ben Bradshaw made this comment after it was announced the changes to the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) would focus on providing the best possible attention and treatment to individuals.

A 13-week consultation sought the opinions of the public, NHS commissioners, clinicians and patient organisations. The National Institute of Clinical Excellence will now oversee the annual process of reviewing the report.

Mr Bradshaw explained the QOF scheme has so far helped the UK to lead the world in providing incentives to GPs to improve their services and he wants to ensure they are supported further.

“It is important that the scheme continues to provide the best health outcomes and value for money for patients,” he commented.

Earlier this week, the Department of Health urged people to check the expiry date of their European Health Insurance Card, as millions will be invalid by the end of the month.

It urged people to ensure they have updated documentation if they are travelling so they are covered if they fall sick or have an accident when abroad.