NHS Primary Care News September 2025 

This week has seen a series of announcements and updates that directly affect general practice. The following NHS primary care news September 2025 report brings together the most important changes and shows how General Practice Solutions (GPS) can help practices adapt smoothly.

GP Contract and Out-of-Area Registrations

NHS England has confirmed the way the 2025/26 GP contract will manage out-of-area registrations. From this month, practices that see growth in patient numbers through out-of-area sign-ups may need commissioner approval before taking on more. Each ICB will set its own trigger points. The changes are designed to safeguard quality of care, ensure patients have fair access to local services, and prevent overstretching practice teams.

GPS can help practices by reviewing registration policies, drafting clear internal procedures, and supporting communication with both commissioners and patients. This ensures compliance and reduces the risk of service disruption.

Workforce and Appointment Data

The latest figures show general practice employed 38,952 full-time equivalent GPs in June 2025, alongside 17,761 nurses, 42,402 direct patient-care roles, and 78,838 administrative staff. Appointment data for July confirm 33.6 million consultations, almost half delivered on the same day. Over sixty per cent were face-to-face, and more than forty per cent were with a GP.

These figures show both the demand placed on practices and the scale of access provided. GPS can help practices interpret the data, plan workforce levels, and prepare for winter pressures. We can also create reports for commissioners, helping practices demonstrate performance and secure support when needed.

NICE Pneumonia Guideline Update

NICE has updated its pneumonia guideline with new prescribing advice for children. Those aged three months to eleven years with non-severe community-acquired pneumonia now require three days of antibiotics instead of five. This change aims to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use while maintaining safety.

Practices must update prescribing templates, duty doctor guidance, and parent-facing advice. GPS supports this by providing training, updating documentation, and creating patient information that is clear and consistent.

Vaccination and Public Health Alerts

The national flu campaign begins this month, with the COVID-19 booster programme due from October to January. At the same time, UKHSA has reported 742 measles cases so far this year, concentrated in London and the North West. The first infant death from whooping cough has also been confirmed, highlighting the importance of maternal vaccination and robust infant coverage.

Practices need strong recall systems and clear communication strategies. GPS helps by setting up recall workflows, updating websites and patient portals, and creating communication templates for text, email, and social media. This improves uptake and supports public health priorities.

Community Pharmacy Developments

On 29 October, the Pharmacy Contraception Service will expand to include free emergency contraception. The New Medicine Service will also cover depression from the same date. At the same time, many pharmacies are struggling to deliver enough consultations under Pharmacy First to qualify for incentive payments, creating variation in patient access.

Practices need to know which pharmacies are fully delivering these services. GPS helps by updating navigation scripts for reception staff, training teams on referral processes, and building accurate pharmacy directories. This avoids patient frustration and strengthens collaboration with community providers.

Weight Management and Tirzepatide Access

NHS England has released commissioning guidance for tirzepatide (Mounjaro). Access will expand in stages, with priority groups identified for the first three years. However, reports show postcode variation, with some areas starting earlier than others. Prescribing must also be supported by wraparound care, including diet, activity, and behavioural support.

GPS can assist practices in checking ICB guidance, drafting local prescribing procedures, and embedding wraparound support. This ensures compliance while protecting patient safety and outcomes.

Industrial Relations and Service Continuity

Consultants and SAS doctors are considering industrial action following recent ballots. While GPs are not directly included, strikes in secondary care could slow referrals, disrupt diagnostic services, and create knock-on delays for patients.

GPS works with practices to develop continuity plans, prepare patient communications, and adjust workflows. This allows practices to manage disruption and maintain patient confidence.

Digital and Technology Announcements

NHS England is introducing a pregnancy-specific closed-loop insulin system for women with type 1 diabetes. This technology should improve maternal and neonatal outcomes, but it requires clear referral pathways and good communication between general practice, maternity, and diabetes teams.

GPS supports practices by briefing staff on the technology, reviewing referral systems, and updating patient information. This ensures eligible patients can access new technology quickly and safely.

CQC Assessment Consultation

The CQC will consult this autumn on updates to assessment methods, with general practice included. The consultation will shape how future inspections are carried out and how compliance is measured.

GPS offers mock inspections, policy updates, and compliance training. We help practices prepare thoroughly and respond to new requirements with confidence.

How General Practice Solutions Can Help

General Practice Solutions offers practical support to help practices manage the changes highlighted in this NHS primary care news September 2025 update. We reduce administrative workload through clinical coding, workflow optimisation and document management, allowing staff to focus on patient care. Our telephony and HR services improve access, stabilise teams and strengthen compliance with employment requirements.

We prepare practices for CQC inspection by reviewing policies, running mock assessments and delivering staff training. We also support vaccination recalls, patient communication campaigns and the safe rollout of new prescribing protocols and digital technologies. By combining operational delivery with strategic guidance, GPS helps practices stay compliant, efficient and resilient, enabling them to provide safe, high-quality care.

Tuesday Talks: Your Weekly Insight into Primary Care

Stay up to date with the latest developments in primary care with Tuesday Talks — our weekly series for healthcare professionals. Each episode highlights current industry news, NHS policy changes, and what these mean for general practice.

We also showcase how General Practice Solutions (GPS) is supporting practices with innovative services designed to meet today’s challenges. Whether you need expert commentary or practical guidance, Tuesday Talks provides timely, relevant content to keep you informed and prepared.

Watch the latest episode below and stay ahead in a fast-changing healthcare landscape.

Workforce Wednesdays: Practical HR Insights for Primary Care

Workforce challenges continue to shape the daily reality of primary care, and therefore Workforce Wednesdays provides a weekly series that explores the HR issues that matter most to NHS practices — from absence management and contractual changes through to employment law updates and staff wellbeing.

In each episode, you will not only find clear, practical guidance but also step-by-step support to help practice leaders manage staffing pressures with confidence. The content addresses both immediate concerns, such as day-to-day rota gaps, and longer-term workforce strategies, while also offering insights tailored specifically to the primary care setting.

Finally, by watching the latest episode, you can access up-to-date HR guidance that is designed to strengthen and support your team, and at the same time build a more resilient workforce for the future.

Thoughtful Thursday: Celebrating Primary Care Positivity

Welcome to Thoughtful Thursday, our weekly series celebrating the uplifting and inspiring moments from across primary care. In addition, each episode highlights stories of innovation, kindness, and community spirit that together showcase the very best of general practice.

This week, you will discover a moving story of compassion and real-world impact; moreover, it serves as a reminder of the dedication and resilience at the heart of our sector.

Ultimately, Thoughtful Thursday is a must-watch for anyone who believes in the power of care.