DAUK notes today\u2019s overwhelming vote by the GPCE to reject the Government\u2019s imposed 2026\/27 GP contract and to open an emergency referendum of the profession.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The referendum for BMA GP and GP registrar members will run from midday on Wednesday 4 March to 12pm on Wednesday 25 March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It will ask whether members accept the contract, or want the Government to return to direct talks with the GPCE to develop a deal that \u2018restores the viability of partnerships, provides fair remuneration for all GPs, and implements workload safeguards to keep GPs and patients safe\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dr Steve Taylor, DAUK GP co-lead, said: \u201cThe new imposed GP contract is extremely poor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt is no surprise that it has been rejected in principle by the BMA General Practice Committee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe real problem is for patients with loss of options for referral, very poor funding will reduce their ability to see GPs despite the headlines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe headline of \u00a3485m extra is only just over inflation and will not fix the problem for patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe Health Secretary says he is \u2018fixing the front door\u2019 but patients need GPs not doors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt is vital that patients understand that this rejection is about protecting patient care.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GPC England chair Dr Katie Bramall said: “GPs are in despair, uncertain how on Earth they can achieve the Government\u2019s unrealistic expectations and fear this contract will drive away more experienced GPs increasing the risk of further practice closures.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read the full response<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Meanwhile, the BMJ<\/a> has reported on Dr Taylor comments that the increase in general practice funding \u2018merely tinkers around the edges of what\u2019s needed\u2019<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And Medscape<\/a> has reported on Dr Taylor\u2019s comments that financial incentives linked to prescribing weight-loss drugs, are \u2018a smokescreen\u2019 for an \u2018appalling\u2019 new contract<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We are a non-profit campaigning and lobbying organisation led by frontline doctors, for frontline doctors. We are volunteers and our collective aim is to give frontline workers a voice to be heard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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