Review of GP funding to tackle health inequalities

The government has announced plans for a review of GP funding to deliver fairer distribution of funding and tackle health inequalities.

The current formula for distributing GP funding, the Carr-Hill formula, is based on data that is around 25 years old in some cases. The formula uses expected workload of GP practices to determine distribution of funding for GP practices across England.

Often, people in more deprived areas and coastal towns have the highest needs for the NHS, but the fewest GPs, worse performing services and longer waits. Data also shows that on average the GP practices that close for good are in areas with areas of higher deprivation.

In London, there are 2,501 patients per GP compared to the South West, where there are 1,967 patients per GP.

Minister of State for Care Stephen Kinnock said: "The way GP funding is allocated is outdated and no longer fit-for-purpose – with more deprived areas and coastal communities across the country experiencing the highest levels of inequality.

"With GPs at the heart of our 10 Year Health Plan, it is vital that we don’t leave any community behind and that we end the postcode lottery of care.

"As we invest in primary care – we must prioritise the areas and communities which have the most need to drive health improvements and close the gap on these health disparities."

Dr Amanda Doyle, NHS England national director for primary care said: "It is essential that GP practices serving our most deprived communities, where health challenges are often greatest, receive a fair share of resources that reflects their need.

"By overhauling GP funding for the first time in two decades, the NHS can better help people to get the support they need as GPs and their teams deliver record numbers of appointments for their communities."