The Doctors’ Association UK (DAUK) has given its response to today’s spending review.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that spending on the NHS will rise by 3% a year after inflation.
She said it was ‘an extra £29bn per year for the day-to-day’ running of the health service.
The Chancellor said the Labour Government has recruited 1,700 more GPs, delivered 3.5 million more appointments, and cut waiting lists by more than 200,000.
Dr Steve Taylor, DAUK’s GP spokesperson, said: “While it’s good to see funding allocated to the health of the nation, this is our money being allocated for our care.
Spending review
“If that funding is inadequate then it should not be celebrated.
“For example, the 1,700 new GPs the Chancellor mentioned are not full-time equivalent numbers.
“It’s fewer than 1,000 FTE – and most of these are in non-substantive roles across a number of practices.
“There are still thousands of GPs unable to find work. This will only increase in August with a new cohort.
“Context is key. The 3.5 million extra appointments is less than three days’ work for GP practices.
“Social care is not being funded and with thousands of patients stuck in hospitals awaiting care packages or placements, or people in need leading to health problems, this cannot be ignored.
“Genuine honesty is required from our political leaders. The spin implies all is well. It’s far from it.”
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