GP Contract
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why are the changes being made?
The changes are necessary to secure increased investment in the primary care sector to continue to attract and retain a high quality workforce, to incentivize the provision of higher quality care and to carry out more care and treatment in a primary care setting.
The changes are necessary to secure increased investment in the primary care sector to continue to attract and retain a high quality workforce, to incentivize the provision of higher quality care and to carry out more care and treatment in a primary care setting.
When will the changes happen?
The contract will be implemented with effect from 1 April 2004. Changes in the way services are delivered for out-of-hours could come into effect from that date if an accredited alternative is available but, in any event, should come into effect no later that 31 December 2004.
The contract will be implemented with effect from 1 April 2004. Changes in the way services are delivered for out-of-hours could come into effect from that date if an accredited alternative is available but, in any event, should come into effect no later that 31 December 2004.
What difference will the changes make to patients?
In general, patients will not notice any difference in the way they get to see their doctor although they may find that the services offered by their practice will be developed and, possibly, expanded. On some occasions, if a patient’s practice does not provide a particular service, they may be able to get access to these services through another provider. The way services are provided from 6:30 pm to 8:00 am the next morning is likely to change but patients will still be provided with a high-class service during those hours.
In general, patients will not notice any difference in the way they get to see their doctor although they may find that the services offered by their practice will be developed and, possibly, expanded. On some occasions, if a patient’s practice does not provide a particular service, they may be able to get access to these services through another provider. The way services are provided from 6:30 pm to 8:00 am the next morning is likely to change but patients will still be provided with a high-class service during those hours.
Where can I find out more?
You can find out more by contacting your local office of the Health and Social Care Board or by asking your own doctor.
You can find out more by contacting your local office of the Health and Social Care Board or by asking your own doctor.
