Kingston's
GP numbers to be protected Local Lib Dem MP, Edward Davey, has received written confirmation from Health Ministers that proposals in the NHS plan will not now result in Kingston’s GP numbers being cut. After being warned of an error on Kingston’s GP numbers in the NHS Plan by the Chairman of the Medical Practices Committee, Edward Davey wrote to the Minister for Health highlighting the Government’s mistake. See earlier news. The Minister has now confirmed that the data used was three years out of date and that the proportion of GPs to residents has changed significantly (please see attached graph). As a result of Edward Davey’s concerns, the Minister has confirmed that funding for GP posts will not be significantly changed. This should safeguard Kingston’s GP numbers. Edward Davey said, "I am pleased that the Minister has responded to my concerns and checked the figures used in the NHS plan." "Clearly the original figures used to estimate Kingston’s GP numbers were a gross exaggeration of the local situation. This could have resulted in funding being redirected away for Kingston." "Now the true picture has been uncovered, the Minister has said that the current number of GPs locally will be maintained." He added, "However, I remain concerned because this Government, like the Conservatives, has failed to back GPs. Doctors are retiring early whilst not enough students are being trained to replace them." "If Minister’s give GPs the support they need, fewer would quit and more students would come forward." |
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