Nick Bostock

The overall GP workforce grew by 2.6% in 2024 - the second successive year in which GP numbers have risen - but doctors' leaders have warned that the accelerating decline of partners leaves the profession's future at risk.

GP services in parts of the UK have been hit hard by Storm Éowyn, as two practices in Scotland saw their roofs torn off while in other parts of the country practices closed, lost power, or switched to emergency appointments only.

GPs should consider asking patients about gambling during health checks and appointments, particularly during conversations about behaviours that can point to increased risk, the first-ever NICE guideline on the topic advises.

One in 10 appointments in general practice could be avoided if patients always saw a regular GP, according to research that suggests continuity of care could dramatically reduce practice workload.

GP contract negotiations for 2025/26 are expected to conclude in February - well ahead of a special LMCs conference in March that will debate whether to step up industrial action, GP leaders have said.

Key government aims for the NHS - including plans to shift care from hospitals to the community - could be at risk because 'complacent' NHS and DHSC officials may not be ready to drive them through, MPs have warned in a report that also calls for a review of GP vaccination payments.

UK health officials have expanded the range of antibiotics recommended as first- or second-choice options for most common infections in an overhaul of advice designed to improve antibiotic stewardship and reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance.

A scheme that has helped recruit thousands of GP registrars to deprived and underdoctored areas could be cut from April, the RCGP has warned.

GPs in Wales have accepted a 'significantly improved' contract offer for 2024/25 that increases overall funding by £52.1m - six weeks after voting to reject a previous offer.

Some GP practices in Scotland have reported a lack of support from health boards and pressure not to close during Storm Éowyn, which saw high winds that tore roofs off at least two practices and caused significant disruption to general practice.