There are over 31,000 more patient care staff working in general practice across England than in 2019, with the size of the workforce in Finchley & Golders Green having increased by more than 70% during that period. This includes roles such as dispensers, health care assistants, pharmacists, physiotherapists, podiatrists, and therapists.
Good primary care is the foundation of an effective health system for patients and is the way that most people experience the NHS. Improving general practice supports the early identification of serious illnesses and the management of chronic conditions, while also helping people to live healthier lives.
The Government committed to increasing the number of people working in general practice in the Primary Care Recovery Plan and Long Term Workforce Plan, and I am pleased to see that we have delivered on this pledge.
This progress in NHS recruitment will be undeniably significant in delivering on the Prime Minister’s pledge to cut NHS waiting lists, and to aid in the recovery of the health service in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.
