Responding to today's reports that GPs would be asked by government to 'write prescriptions for money off energy bills', Dr David Wrigley, BMA England GP committee deputy chair, said:

“We completely reject any suggestion that GPs do this work. They do not have the time or the skills to do the work of the welfare system.

“In these next few months GPs already have to worry about delivering the Covid and flu vaccination programmes that will be necessary to see the NHS through the winter, on top of their daily crushing workload and the enormous Covid backlog we now see.

“At a time when GPs are already overwhelmed with the greatest workforce crisis and longest waiting lists in memory, this addition to their workload would be totally unacceptable. It beggars belief that government ministers think it is appropriate to suggest GPs undertake it.

“The government has not discussed this with us in any form - floating these sorts of proposals via the media is deeply unprofessional.”

 

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Notes to editors

The BMA is a trade union and professional association representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.