Gloucestershire GP Surgeries Struggle with Funding Shortfalls and Staff Burnout

General practitioner (GP) surgeries in Gloucestershire are contending with significant challenges, including rising costs, increased government demands, and a higher-than-ever need for patient care. Price's Mill Surgery in Nailsworth is one such practice that has written to patients, detailing the "huge pressures" their doctors are facing.

The practice partners at Price's Mill Surgery cite sub-inflation annual government funding increases of 2.1% that fail to keep pace with the skyrocketing costs of running the surgery. This has led to an inability to increase staffing levels to match the growing demand for services. Consequently, healthcare workers are experiencing high rates of work-related illness, burnout, and staff turnover.

In their letter to patients, the practice partners explain that the current situation has affected their ability to offer the same level of service as in the past. They are investing in new ways of working, such as an online triage system, to try to improve sustainability. However, they highlight that it remains a very challenging time, and they may need to direct patients to NHS 111 when they reach their limit of safe working levels.

Why this matters: The challenges faced by GP surgeries in Gloucestershire are not unique, as healthcare systems across the country struggle with funding shortfalls and increasing patient needs. The potential impact on patient care and the well-being of healthcare workers is a growing concern that requires urgent attention and action from policymakers.

NHS Gloucestershire has acknowledged the challenges facing local GP practices, including a record increase in patient contacts, a significant rise in costs, and staffing pressures. The NHS is providing support to practices and Primary Care Networks while also working to plan for future levels of patient need and champion proactive and preventative care.

A recent report by the Health Foundation warns that the number of working-age people living with major illness in England is projected to increase by 23% by 2040, from 3 million in 2019 to 3.7 million. The increase is expected to be most pronounced in the most deprived areas, where people are likely to develop major illnesses a decade earlier than those in the least deprived areas. The experts call for more investment in primary care, public health services, and prevention to address the rising ill health and health inequalities.

The situation at Price's Mill Surgery highlights the urgent need for increased funding and support for GP practices in Gloucestershire and across the country. As Dr. Catti Moss, a partner at the surgery, stated in the letter to patients, "We are doing our very best, but there is only so much we can do with the resources we have."

Key Takeaways

• GP surgeries in Gloucestershire face rising costs, demand, and staffing issues.
• Price's Mill Surgery cites 2.1% annual funding increases, unable to meet demand.
• Healthcare workers experience burnout, leading to reduced service levels.
• NHS Gloucestershire acknowledges challenges, plans to address patient needs.
• Experts call for more investment in primary care and preventative services.