EDM 1616: Investment in General Practice

That this House notes with concern that although about 90% of NHS interactions take place in general practice, only 6% of the NHS budget is allocated to it; recognises that general practice remains one of the most financially efficient parts of the NHS, as highlighted in the Darzi Review 2024, yet continues to be chronically underfunded; further notes that the current funding formula fails to take adequate account of rurality and age, placing additional pressure on practices in areas like West Dorset; expresses concern that in Dorset, over 550,000 GP appointments last year involved waits of more than 28 days; highlights the urgent need to invest in digital infrastructure, including extending the Electronic Prescription Service across hospitals and community trusts to reduce waste, delays and duplication, and to lessen the administrative burden on GPs; also notes that over one-third of GPs report that their buildings are not fit for purpose, with over half of GP premises more than 30 years old and one in five predating the foundation of the NHS; believes that urgent investment in the primary care estate is essential to meet demand, deliver preventative care and avoid long-term costs; calls for a guarantee that patients will be able to see a GP within a week, or within 24 hours in urgent cases, to prevent conditions escalating into avoidable hospital admissions; and urges the Government to properly fund general practice and community healthcare as a vital and cost-effective part of a sustainable NHS.