As the NHS continues to evolve in response to the ever-changing needs of patients and healthcare providers, this week has seen several notable developments across the UK primary care landscape. From digital innovation to funding challenges, here is a round-up of the most significant updates.

Urgent Care Boost: £450 Million Plan to Ease A&E Pressure

In a major announcement, NHS England has unveiled a £450 million initiative to strengthen urgent and emergency care services across the country. The strategy aims to reduce overcrowding in Accident & Emergency departments by enhancing alternative routes to care.

Key features of the plan include the creation of 40 new same-day emergency care units, 15 crisis hubs for mental health support based in hospitals, and a fleet of 500 additional ambulances. There will also be further investment in home-based paramedic care and virtual wards. The intention is to offer timely support for patients who do not require emergency hospitalisation, thereby tackling the ongoing issue of “corridor care” and long A&E waits.

Expanding the NHS App: Empowering Patients Through Digital Access

Digital transformation remains at the forefront of NHS planning, with the government revealing new upgrades to the NHS App as part of its 10-Year Health Plan. Used by over 37 million people, the app is set to become a more comprehensive platform for patient interaction.

Planned enhancements include the ability to order repeat prescriptions, view test results, participate in clinical trials, and choose hospitals based on quality ratings and waiting times. The expansion is designed to provide greater patient autonomy, improve transparency, and help reduce the administrative burden on primary care teams.

Digital Triage Revolution: Smoother Access to GP Services

A recent shift in how general practice appointments are managed is producing positive results. The nationwide roll-out of digital triage systems—designed to replace the traditional 8am rush for GP appointments—has now been adopted by 99% of practices across England.

Patients are asked to submit an online consultation form detailing their symptoms, after which practices commit to responding the same day. Early data is encouraging: a 2025 survey by the Office for National Statistics found that 72% of patients reported improved ease of access to care, compared to 60% the previous year. The system has streamlined administrative processes and enabled more appropriate allocation of clinical resources.

Funding Constraints Force Changes to Shared Care Arrangements

In West Sussex, Petworth Surgery has announced it will no longer enter into new shared care agreements as of 1st June 2025. The decision stems from financial pressures and a lack of appropriate funding to support the additional responsibilities that come with shared prescribing and monitoring.

In light of this, hospital consultants will retain full responsibility for the initiation and oversight of treatments requiring shared care. The move underscores a growing concern among GP practices about the sustainability of services when funding and resources are not aligned with expectations.

Academic Half Day Closure: Training Across Primary Care Networks

On Tuesday 10th June 2025, Station Road Surgery in West Wickham—part of the Hayes Wick Primary Care Network—will close from 12:30pm as staff participate in a scheduled Academic Half Day. This dedicated time supports continuous professional development and the sharing of best practice across network practices.

Patients requiring urgent assistance during this period are advised to contact NHS 111 or attend their nearest urgent care centre. These closures are part of NHS England’s commitment to building a skilled, responsive, and resilient primary care workforce.

As we continue through June, the primary care sector remains firmly focused on innovation, access, and sustainability. Whether through digital advancements or re-evaluating funding models, the changes underway are set to shape the future of healthcare delivery across the UK.

If your organisation would like support in responding to these changes, please feel free to contact the team at General Practice Solutions.

Workforce Wednesdays: HR Hot Topics with Jordan

Staying informed about workforce issues is key to building resilient primary care teams—especially during times of operational change and staffing pressure. Join us every week for Workforce Wednesdays, where our HR lead Jordan explores topical issues in primary care staffing, employment law updates, and practical solutions for managing teams effectively.

From handling absences to navigating contract changes, Jordan shares clear, actionable insights that help practice leaders stay ahead.

Click here to explore Workforce Wednesdays and tune in to the latest HR hot topics.

Stay Updated with Primary Care News

For more up-to-date primary care news, tune in to Tuesday Talks! Each week, we discuss key industry updates, policy changes, and how they impact healthcare providers. We also highlight the latest services and solutions offered by GPS, helping practices stay ahead in an ever-changing NHS landscape.

Join us for expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions tailored to primary care professionals.

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