Displaying items by tag: community care

The Government is expanding its ‘Advice and Guidance’ scheme to help GPs provide quicker, community-based care and reduce hospital waiting lists. With £80 million in new funding, the goal is to assist two million patients, avoiding unnecessary referrals and offering more convenient treatment for conditions like menopause symptoms, ear infections, and irritable bowel syndrome. The scheme enables GPs to consult directly with hospital specialists before formally referring patients, allowing many to be treated locally. Health minister Karin Smyth says the initiative is part of 'rewiring the NHS’, reducing strain on hospital services while saving patients time. GP surgeries can also claim fees for each use of the system. While the scheme has been welcomed as a step in the right direction, health charities stress the importance of clear communication and patient choice. Medical groups say this must be paired with greater investment and long-term reform to truly safeguard the future of family doctor services.