A rural GP in Lancashire is facing takeover by a large private health firm. “Doctors’ Association UK told i the row highlights a trend among health officials that “bigger is better” when it comes to general practice, to the detriment of patients.”
“Dr Lizzie Toberty, GP lead at Doctors’ Association UK, said the ICB appeared to have made a “glaring error” by not taking into account patient opinion.
“After all if the service is not run for them, then who? This issue highlights a much wider trend, which is the presumption that bigger is better when it comes to primary care,” she said.
“Similar cases could arise if due process is not followed. There may be some efficiencies to be made but actually what many of our patients tell us is they highly value having an ongoing and enduring relationship with their GP.
“Indeed, the evidence shows us continuity of care leads to higher patient satisfaction, lower hospital admissions and better care. DAUK believe continuity of care and relationship based medicine must be at the centre of all future community health policy. Patients in Lancashire have realised what is at stake, and are fighting for it.”
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