GP fundholders must produce annual reports
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.(First Edition) A FORMAL system of accountability for GP fundholders was pledged by Virginia Bottomley, Secretary of State for Health, yesterday as part of the plans to expand the primary health service, writes Celia Hall.
In future, fundholding GPs will be required to produce annual reports, spell out their treatment plans and consult with patients over services.
Mrs Bottomley said that before the end of the year a consultation document on accountability would be published. 'The public must be confident that innovation is backed by proper accountability. Family doctors must be responsible for the use of taxpayers' money,' she said.
Mrs Bottomley also said there would be some relaxation in the rules which govern what GP fundholders can do with financial savings or surpluses.
A booklet, Developing Purchasing and GP Fundholding: Towards a Primary Care-led NHS is available from Health Publications Unit, Heywood Stores, Manchester Road, Heywood, Lancs, OL10 2PZ.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments