General practice in England nearing ’saturation point’ as study reveals extent of GP workload increase

The largest analysis of GP and nurse consultations to date shows workloads in general practice have increased by 16 per cent over the past seven years, with more frequent and longer consultations. The researchers, from the Universities of Oxford and Bristol, reported their findings in The Lancet. They warn the increases are unsustainable, and that general practice in England could be reaching saturation point. "For many years, doctors and nurses have reported increasing workloads, but for the first time, we are able to provide objective data that this is indeed the case," says Professor Richard Hobbs, lead author from the Nuffield Department of Primary Care and Health Sciences at the University of Oxford. "The demands on general practice have increased substantially over the past seven years. Recruitment of new GPs and nurses remains low while the population in England steadily increases. As currently delivered, the system seems to be approaching saturation point." Overall, the authors found that the workload in general practice (GP and nurses combined) has increased by 16 per cent.