The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) has today (Wednesday, 22 June) published its Fit for the Future report, which warns that urgent action is needed to prevent almost 19,000 GPs from leaving the profession over the next five years.
Commenting on this, Naeem Nazem, Head of Medical Division at MDDUS, said: “Sadly, this report mirrors our latest member survey, which found that one in two GPs were considering taking early retirement or leaving the profession altogether.
“Members told us the main reasons for this were increased workloads, mental health and wellbeing, and staff shortages.
“It is clear stress levels in the UK healthcare workforce have reached an almost unsustainable point, and our frontline GPs are struggling.
“Being a family doctor should and can be one of the most rewarding jobs in the world. But right now, GPs urgently need recognition, reassurance and realism to feel supported and empowered to stay in their hard-earned careers.
“Policymakers’ decision-making must factor in the clear connection between adequate funding and support for primary care services, health professionals, and patient safety.”
ENDS
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) is a mutual organisation that protects the professional interests of more than 54,000 doctors and dentists across the United Kingdom, offering access to indemnity, support and legal advice.
For further information please contact Alison Hardie, head of public affairs and strategic communications, on ahardie@mddus.com or on 07501 421398.
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.