The GP Contract 25/26 refers to the formal agreement between general practitioners and NHS England for the financial year 2025-2026. It outlines the terms, conditions, funding arrangements, and service specifications that GP practices must adhere to when delivering primary care services within the NHS. This contract defines payment structures, quality standards, performance metrics, and specific healthcare priorities for that year.
The GP Contract 25/26 introduces several significant changes including updated funding formulas, revised Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) indicators, enhanced digital service requirements, and new specifications for PCNs. It also addresses workforce challenges with provisions for additional roles reimbursement, updates the requirements for extended access services, and includes new targets for preventative healthcare and management of long-term conditions in line with NHS Long Term Plan priorities.
For Primary Care Networks (PCNs), the GP Contract 25/26 outlines specific service specifications, collaboration requirements, and funding arrangements. It details the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) allocations, sets expectations for integrated care delivery, establishes targets for population health management, and defines how PCNs should work with wider system partners. The contract also specifies PCN quality improvement activities and how networks should support practices in meeting contractual obligations.
The GP Contract 25/26 is primarily negotiated between NHS England and the British Medical Association's General Practitioners Committee (BMA GPC). These negotiations involve consultation with various stakeholders including the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP), patient representative groups, and other professional bodies. The Department of Health and Social Care also provides input on policy priorities, while Integrated Care Boards may contribute perspectives on local healthcare needs and implementation considerations.
GP practices can prepare for the GP Contract 25/26 by thoroughly reviewing the contract documentation when published, attending NHS England briefing sessions, and consulting with Local Medical Committees (LMCs) for guidance. Practices should assess their current performance against new requirements, develop implementation plans for new service specifications, review staffing needs, update practice systems to accommodate changes, and communicate with patients about any service adjustments. Collaborative planning with PCN partners can also help distribute responsibilities effectively.
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