Government on track to deliver 26,000 more primary care staff

The government is on track to deliver on its manifesto commitment of having 26,000 more primary care staff by March 2024, according to new data.

There are now 18,200 more people working in general practice in March 2022, compared to March 2019, and nearly 30,000 overall.

This includes clinical pharmacists, mental health practitioners, nursing and physician associates, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists and social prescribing link workers, who refer patients to community services to support their wellbeing.

The additional staff form part of multi-disciplinary teams within primary care, working alongside GPs to care for patients with complex needs, reducing pressure on GPs and increasing capacity.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: ‘I am hugely grateful for the tireless work of GPs and primary care staff who act as the ‘front door’ to the NHS and provide advice and support to their patients. We have been working closely with the NHS to continue building the workforce and tackle the Covid backlog.

‘With over 18,200 more primary care staff already, we are on track to deliver 26,000 more by 2024, backed by record funding to help increase capacity and get patients the care they need more quickly.’

Dr Nikki Kanani, National Medical Director for Primary Care, commented: ‘General Practice is a brilliant place to work, at the very the heart of the NHS with the chance to make a difference every day in local communities helping people and their families stay in good health, and being there for people during difficult moments.

‘General Practice staff have worked flat-out over the pandemic and it’s fantastic 18,000 healthcare workers have joined general practice teams in just three years. With brilliant career prospects, there is no better time than now to apply – search ‘NHS careers’ to find the role for you.’

In related news, more than half a million people are now waiting for adult social care assessments, reviews or care support to begin, finds a new report from the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS).

Photo by CDC