Impact of the New GMS Contract on GP Appointments in Wales
Author Information
Author(s): Andrea Edwards, Richard D Neal
Primary Institution: Victoria Gardens Surgery, Neath, UK; Department of Primary Care & Public Health, School of Medicine, Wrexham, UK
Hypothesis
What is the current state of appointment provision in Wales and how has it changed due to the new GMS contract?
Conclusion
The survey shows that while many practices have improved appointment access, the overall impact on patient care quality remains uncertain.
Supporting Evidence
- 93.1% of practices achieved the access target for 2004/05.
- 60% of practices reported offering more open or advanced access slots.
- 42% of practices increased GP phone consultations.
- 83% of practice managers believed patients could get an appointment when needed.
Takeaway
This study asked doctors' offices in Wales how easy it is for patients to get appointments, and most said it's getting better, but we still don't know if it's really helping patients.
Methodology
A postal questionnaire survey was conducted among practice managers in Wales.
Potential Biases
There may be systematic bias from non-responders and the study only surveyed practice managers, not patients.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data from practice managers, which may not accurately reflect patient experiences.
Participant Demographics
Practice managers from 505 general practices in Wales.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Confidence Interval
95% CI -1666, -137
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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