30/09/2008

GPs Targets Exceeded

New figures just published today show that GPs in England are making a real improvement to the health of the nation.

According to the new data, general practice teams achieved 96.8% of all targets set out in the national Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) - as introduced in April 2004 as part of the new national GP contract - which is an increase of 1.3% on last year.

Commenting on the figures, Dr Richard Vautrey, Deputy Chairman of the BMA's GP Committee, said: "These figures are really good news for patients. GPs and their staff should feel proud of what they have achieved.

"What's more, the QOF means that patients are getting a very high standard of treatment no matter where they live and the gap between those in the most and least deprived areas is narrowing year on year."

Dr Vautrey added that he was particularly pleased at how much of an improvement there has been in treating patients with depression.

"But," he continued, "GPs are also working hard to target a whole range of diseases and illnesses.

"For example, implementing the steps of the framework for chronic kidney disease can delay progression of the disease.

"Lowering blood pressure and controlling hypertension means GPs can reduce the number of heart attacks.

"Patients with asthma and diabetes are being diagnosed promptly, getting early treatment and this is making a real difference - improving quality of life, reducing hospital admissions and ultimately saving lives," he concluded.

(BMcC)

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