GPs have been getting increasingly concerned that they cannot get the necessary cancer care for patients during the crisis, according to a new survey. More than half said they were “highly concerned” that patients with suspected cancer could not get the investigation and are they needed in the survey of more than a thousand doctors.…

A major academic study is to be undertaken into the recent dramatic changes in general practice during the Covid-19 pandemic, it has been announced. Researchers are to study the way a million people in the west of England reacted to the pandemic and requests not to visit GP surgeries. There will also be “brief” but…

Just 26% of consultations in late March and early April took place face-to-face in the first weeks after the lockdown, the Royal College of GPs reported. Further data released by NHS Digital for March showed overall consultation numbers falling – but only very slightly. Practices reported 23.7 million appointments during March – compared with 25.2…

NHS care for patients without Covid-19 infection has “significantly worsened”, doctors warn today. The British Medical Association said there was a long-term threat of increased clinical demands on the NHS. A BMA survey of more than 16,000 doctors found that almost a third said that prioritisation of the virus was “significantly” worsening care of other…

The current situation in primary care during the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted me to reflect on the role of leaders when there’s a crisis. I’m sure many of you are appreciating the need for leadership currently. Leadership is an integral part of any practice manager’s role. And, whether you like it or not, you’re a…

The families of doctors who die during the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK will be granted indefinite leave to stay in the UK, it has been announced as part of a range of reforms aimed at helping overseas NHS staff. In some cases the decision will allow families to settle in the UK from less…

A pledge of cash benefits for bereaved families of health workers has gained mixed reactions from medical organisations. Doctors’ groups pointed out the government was offering a single lump sum rather than a pension for those affected – and that it was unclear who would receive them. Nursing unions however welcomed the payments, promised at…