BMA: Local needs are vital

The British Medical Association (BMA) has a number of concerns with the proposed model of larger general practices, known as polyclinics.

During its consultants' conference at the start of June delegates voted to reject an imposed model of privately-owned polyclinics across England.

They also backed the motion saying the roll-out of polyclinics should be halted until they have been piloted and appraised in line with the advice from the secretary of state in other areas.

Dr Jonathan Fielden, chairman of the BMA's consultants committee, called on the government to "dump the polyclinic plan".
"The centrally enforced polyclinic plan holds no water, has no benefit and no financial gain," he said.

"Work with the profession and the people. Together we will deliver the changes across the capital and the country our patients need. Breaking down the barriers between primary and secondary care; facilitating better collaboration closer to the patient."

A recent BMA survey found that six out of ten consultants believe polyclinics will not improve the quality of patient care.

The King's Fund report said it found no evidence that the quality of care provided may be no better than at current GP practices.

It concludes that polyclinics have the potential to reform care but only after a number of issues have been dealt with.