Speaking at a meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Group for primary care and public health at the House of Commons in London last week, Dr Buckman said: ‘Many GPs would be quite willing to extend their working day if they were reasonably resourced to do so. Staff are very reluctant to work longer hours but will do so if they are paid enough.’
He also pressed the case for patients being able to see a GP near where they work.
‘The only reason it hasn’t happened is that it is technically complicated to deliver, could lead to increased risks to patients and is potentially a lot more expensive,’ added Dr Buckman.
The GPC chairman was one of three speakers, including health minister Ben Bradshaw, in a debate about GP access and extended hours. Read the full story in the next issue of GP.
neil.durham@haymarket.com
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