00:00GPs will have to guarantee same-day appointments for patients with urgent health needs.
00:06A new contractual clause will require practices to meet that standard in 90 percent of cases
00:12from this April. Urgent cases include symptoms needing treatment that day or where delay risks
00:19deterioration. Ministers say an extra £500 million for GP services will support recruitment
00:26and improve access. Health Secretary Wes Streeting says it's to fix the NHS front door.
00:32The British Medical Association warns the move could raise unrealistic expectations
00:37given existing pressures and rising patient numbers. Practices falling short will be supported,
00:43not penalised, ministers say.
Comments