Plans to introduce a 'GP league table' would be "demeaning" for practices in the East
The plans will allow patients to rate the performances of GPs via text message.
A group that represents GPs in the East of England has told us plans for a ‘league table’ of GP practices is “demeaning”.
New proposals will give patients more power to demand appointments to see GPs, and also allow them to rate practices via text message.
This will be based on based on performance, as well as access to face-to-face appointments.
Andy Yakoub, CEO of Healthwatch Suffolk, says: "When the regulators look at the quality of care that's GP practices, they look at umpteen number of aspects of what it is that they do.
"A league table will be so rudimentary. It would just be about the number of people that are seen face to face, or a percentage.
"That's just not enough, it will give a false picture."
NHS England said the measures, including a £250 million winter access fund, will enable GP practices to improve availability and increase the number of face-to-face appointments and same-day care.
However, practices that don’t provide enough in-person appointments will not be able to access the funding.
GPs have also had to deal with staff shortages, as well as a surge in demand for services.
Andy Yakoub said the funding is just a "drop in the ocean" compared to what's required.
He added: "In the last 18 months, the number of appointments that GP practices have had to respond to has nearly doubled - so it's impossible to see everyone face-to-face.
"It's about making the best use of telephone systems, online, and then you see GPs face-to-face if that's necessary.
"This ratings system that's been proposed is demeaning to the practices and to the patients involved.
I don't think it's beneficial, it's not been thought through. It's more about are you seeing the right person at the right time face-to-face - not necessarily when they want it, but when they need it."
Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, said: "Our new plan provides general practice teams with investment and targeted support.
“This will tackle underperformance, taking pressure off staff so they can spend more time with patients and increase the number of face-to-face appointments.
“Alongside this we are setting out more measures to tackle abuse and harassment so staff at GP surgeries who work so tirelessly to care for patients can do so without having to fear for their safety.”