MPS concerned at plans for new GP practice regulator

The Medical Protection Society (MPS) warns that new plans to regulate GP practices may result in unnecessary red tape. The warning followed today’s announcement by the Government that GP practices may be regulated by the new super watchdog – the Care Quality Commission.  

Commenting on today’s announcement Dr Priya Singh, Medical Director, said:

“Everyone would agree that patients must be confident that they will receive the same quality of care, whether that is in a GP practice or a hospital. However, we are not convinced that bringing GP practices into a national regulatory framework is the right, or proportionate, approach. The majority of surgeries that we see instigate and maintain high standards. It is often the case that local governance is infinitely better placed to respond to the needs of local communities and individual patients.”

“Clearly we will consider the consultation carefully and respond in detail to the proposals. However, at first glance we are concerned that meeting the demands of yet another regulatory body will be onerous and intrusive and may interfere with the running of already over-stretched GP practices.” 

“GP practices already face tough regulatory measures: the quality and safety of surgeries are subject to monitoring by PCTs and practices providing NHS services have a contractual obligation to meet certain standards. Adding yet another layer of regulation may be a needless duplication.” 

“It would be disappointing if, at a time when the government is encouraging GPs to open longer hours and make themselves more accessible, this proposal could result in more paperwork that will keep doctors away from their patients.”

- ENDS –