You may be aware there have been changes to the way General Practice is funded by NHS England. We are being encouraged to work with other local surgeries to form "Primary Care Networks" to provide integrated health and social care to our local population.
We are delighted to be part of a newly formed (August 2019) Primary Care Network with Swanscombe Health Centre and Pilgrims Way Surgery.
Together we make up the ‘Garden City Primary Care Network'. Our aim, by working collaboratively, is to allow the member practices opportunities to develop new services, improve efficiency and ultimately, improve the care provided to our patients. We will develop new ways of working using innovative approaches to health care delivery as well as working with local organisations to enhance the wellbeing of our patients.
Over the next 5 years we will receive new investment in General Practice. The majority of this funding will be to enable us to hire additional staffing groups to join our practice teams. These staff groups are practice pharmacists, social prescribers, physiotherapists, physician assistants and paramedics. Their purpose will be to provide additional clinical capacity, free up GP time for patients who need more input, and broaden the skill mix in our teams. Thus, improving the sustainability of General Practice.
If you would like more information or would like to be involved, please contact the practice manager.