Doctor: Patient Ratios (Hansard, 28 January 2003)

§ Mr. Hutton

We are committed to expanding the primary care workforce both through national and local initiatives. The London Workforce Development Confederation has introduced a number of specific programmes to expand the general practitioner workforce in London by 225 GPs. These includeThe London Deanery's successful expansion of the number of training places in GP practices for GP registrars. This year there are an additional 51 training places for GPs in London. Primary care trusts will be able to build on this success by setting up new and more flexible contracts for newly qualified GPs. More flexible career opportunities, particularly those designed to retain GPs close to retirement age, are also being put into place by London PCTs including a Flexible Career Scheme which will commence shortly, designed to attract GPs back into practice for part-time working.

Havering PCT is supporting nine applications for personal medical service status which includes seven salaried GP posts. The PCT is also working to make Havering a more attractive proposition for GPs to retain and further recruit doctors in the area. Some of the areas being progressed are the development of specialist GPs and a means of retaining registrars after they qualify. Developing the primary care infrastructure is also a key element of the PCT's strategy and its involvement in the local improvement finance trust process should further enhance its ability to retain GPs by making improved facilities available to them.