I have been following with interest the debate on extended opening and the example set by a surgery in Commuterland (GP, 2 November).
Am I correct in my understanding that this is a PMS practice which was given growth money and which employs salaried doctors to run the late hours and Saturdays, not the partners?
How does this help GMS practices, which receive no such funding, or even PMS practices without growth which are being squeezed financially by their PCTs?
How does this help patients get continuity of care and the ability to see 'their own' GP which is so vital for the long-term therapeutic relationship?
This is pure pandering to the whims of the gossiping classes and to political correctness, rather than being good medicine.
We need to stand for the basic, sure values in general practice, rather than being blown by the political wind.
Let us have a campaign for good access rather than political access.
Dr Peter Swinyard, honorary secretary, Family Doctor Association, Swindon.
