Plan for GPs to keep millions out of hospital

A scheme to support GPs to provide care and advice to patients which avoids them joining long NHS hospital waiting lists is being expanded in England, the government says.
GPs will work more closely with specialists to access expert advice quickly for patients with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, menopause symptoms and ear infections.
Backed by £80m of funding, its ambition is to help two million people receive faster and more convenient care in their local community by the end of 2025/26.
Health minister Karen Smyth said the scheme would “save time and stop masses of people having to head to hospital for unnecessary appointments”.
The expanded scheme is part of the government’s plan to cut long NHS waiting lists and create extra appointments for patients.

Source: BBC | Language: English