NHS Primary Care Update: W/C 29/09

The latest NHS primary care update this week highlights the rapid pace of change facing general practice. New online booking rules, digital hospital plans, workforce attrition data, procurement reforms, and GP contract updates are reshaping how practices operate across England. These developments present both opportunities and risks. Practices must adapt quickly, manage demand safely, and plan strategically to remain compliant and resilient. Below is a detailed overview of the most important developments in this NHS primary care update, with reflections on what they mean for frontline teams.

Online appointment booking expands — and provokes dispute

The government has confirmed that GP practices in England must offer online appointment booking between 08:00 and 18:30 every weekday, starting 1 October. This reform has led the NHS primary care update because it touches directly on patient access and daily practice operations.

The aim is to reduce the 8am rush for appointments and make it easier for patients to book care. However, many GPs warn that without proper safeguards, online booking could bypass safe triage and flood practices with inappropriate requests. The British Medical Association has warned that the system risks patient safety and practice capacity. In response, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has accused GPs of resisting reform and insisted that modernisation is non-negotiable.

How GPS can help: At GPS, we support practices through advanced telephony systems, trained associates, and robust workflow management. This ensures that urgent cases are identified quickly, patient demand is handled safely, and staff are not overwhelmed by the increased volume of online requests.

NHS ‘online hospital’ set to launch in 2027

Another major development covered in the NHS primary care update is NHS England’s announcement of a fully digital “online hospital” service, due to launch in 2027. Patients referred by their GP will be able to arrange specialist consultations by phone or video. They will also book diagnostic tests such as scans through the NHS App, connecting directly to community diagnostic centres.

The ambition is vast: 8.5 million appointments and assessments in the first three years. Advocates argue it will improve convenience, reduce unnecessary hospital visits, and release physical capacity. However, the NHS primary care update has also highlighted concerns around digital exclusion for patients who lack internet access, potential disruption to existing referral systems, and the risk of fragmented care if digital and physical services are not properly integrated.

How GPS can help: GPS helps practices strengthen referral processes, streamline coding and summarising, and prepare for integration with new NHS digital systems. By aligning local workflows with national innovations, we reduce disruption and ensure safe, compliant care for patients.

Workforce pressures intensify

Workforce shortages remain a dominant theme in this NHS primary care update. A BMJ study revealed that more than one third of licensed GPs are not working in NHS general practice. This is a rise from around a quarter a decade ago, and the figures are even more stark when calculated in full-time equivalent terms.

The data shows that women, younger GPs, and those based in London and the South East are the most likely groups to leave or reduce their hours. For patients, this means longer waits and reduced continuity. For staff, it creates a cycle of rising demand and burnout. The NHS primary care update has reflected growing concern from both professional bodies and patient groups that without urgent retention strategies, access will continue to deteriorate.

How GPS can help: Our associate workforce provides reliable cover in clinical coding, workflow management, summarising, and telephony. By removing administrative pressure, we give GPs and nurses more time to focus on patient care. This supports both staff wellbeing and service quality.

Procurement changes for medtech

The Department of Health and NHS England have confirmed a significant shift in procurement rules for medical technology. The NHS primary care update notes that lowest cost will no longer be the primary criterion. Instead, procurement decisions will prioritise patient benefit, safety, and long-term value.

This change is intended to speed up the adoption of innovative technologies and reduce waste caused by short-term purchasing. For general practice, it could mean earlier access to digital diagnostic tools, more effective monitoring systems, and technologies that help reduce waiting times. However, the NHS primary care update also points out the challenges: clear evaluation frameworks are needed, and practices will require strong governance processes to integrate new tools safely.

How GPS can help: We work with practices to ensure that innovation is adopted safely and effectively. Our governance frameworks, policies, and compliance support enable practices to use new technology without introducing risk.

Contract changes and regulatory updates

The 2025/26 GP contract is another major story in the NHS primary care update. It includes £889 million in core funding alongside £80 million for e-Referral support. While this represents investment, many practices believe it will not keep pace with rising staffing, premises, and inflationary costs.

The contract also introduces new regulatory requirements. Practices must now seek NHS approval before registering certain out-of-area patients. In addition, they must provide three modes of consultation access: in person, by phone, and online. The NHS primary care update notes that these requirements will reshape how practices organise capacity, manage staff, and monitor compliance.

How GPS can help: GPS helps practices adapt to contract demands by providing flexible, multi-channel access solutions. Our services in workflow management, patient communication, and administrative support help practices remain compliant and deliver safe, efficient care.

RCGP commentary

The Royal College of General Practitioners has featured prominently in this NHS primary care update. The College has raised concerns over workforce attrition and stressed the importance of protecting safe patient access as digital reforms expand. Their comments reflect broader anxieties within the profession about sustainability, safety, and the future of general practice.

How GPS can help: GPS provides dependable support that helps practices weather workforce gaps and operational strain. Our services maintain compliance, protect data quality, and ensure patients receive safe care even when staffing is stretched.

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.