The Government should aim to provide absolute clarity on what and who will be covered in the new state-backed indemnity scheme for GPs in England, and ensure the scheme is set up in doctors’ interests, the Medical Protection Society (MPS) told the Westminster Health Forum.
Speaking at Thursday’s event on The Future of Primary Care, MPS’s Medical Director Dr Rob Hendry, set out four ‘asks’ to the Government, to ensure the new scheme provides the best possible protection for GPs. These are to:
- Provide absolute certainty on what is and is not covered in the new scheme, particularly concerning non NHS work - so GPs fully understand what additional protection or support they might need. We currently know the scheme will not include assistance with complaints, GMC inquiries, inquests or disciplinary proceedings and MPS will continue to provide this support.
- Provide absolute clarity on who will and will not be covered in the new scheme - this should reflect and support new ways of delivering primary care and be as simple as possible for practices
- Ensure the new scheme is run in doctors’ interests – clinical negligence experts, and those with a detailed understanding of primary care and the needs of GPs, should be involved throughout its development
- Ensure a smooth transition for GPs from their existing indemnity to the new state-backed scheme
Dr Hendry added that further detail on the cost of the scheme and the level at which it will operate is also vital, and that the BMA and RCGP are working with the Government to address these issues and ensure the best outcome for GPs.
Speaking at the event, he said: “We know there are a number of details still to be developed regarding how the scheme will work.
“We are working with the Government and have set out four main asks to ensure the new scheme provides the best possible protection for GPs. These are the issues our members would like greater certainty on at this time, so they can make informed decisions that meet their needs both now and in the future.
“We will continue to push the Government to ensure swift progress is made and that GPs get that much needed certainty. We will also continue to share our expertise in the field.”
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The Westminster Health Forum event took place on Thursday 7 December.
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