Health Education England (HEE) has unveiled its vision for the future of general practice specialty training as part of a new report.
The report details methods in which the health sector can reimagine the delivery of education to GP trainees, which HEE says can better prepare them for future work in different models of care.
The resource outlines opportunities to pivot to more flexible models of training that meet the requirements, skills and experience of the individual, whilst also working to meet the demands and intricacies of local communities.
One of the key focuses includes equipping trainees with the ability to work against the increasing amount of primary care patients with mental health concerns – the report also picks out ensuring patients in deprived areas are able to access care as another priority.
Professor Simon Gregory, Medical Director, Primary and Integrated Care at HEE, said: “Primary care remains the foundation of universal healthcare and our NHS. The world is changing at unprecedented rates and our future GPs must be equipped with the right skills and resources to meet the ever-shifting needs of their patients.
“At this challenging time for the profession it has also never been more important for them to see the potential for a fulfilling and rewarding career in general practice.
“This report seeks to revitalise GP training by outlining a vision for a future of sustainable general practice careers, ready to best deliver the established curriculum through quality GP training programmes and placements, delivered within available capacity.”
Other important plans set out in the strategy include proposals for technological advancements like live-streaming, simulations and a virtual training academy, as well as the roll out of more leadership opportunities during training.
Health Minister Neil O’Brien added: “It is important doctors entering general practice have the necessary skills to treat both people’s physical and mental health needs. We also need a workforce which can make the best use of technology to help speed up diagnosis and treatment.
“We have record numbers of GPs in training who require the best possible programmes of training and I welcome the work done by Health Education England who listened to patients, doctors and educators to develop these innovative proposals.”
To read the full report, click here.
