GPs in the UK are considering “work-to-rule” actions that could involve limiting the number of appointments they provide each day. One reported plan would see practices cap appointments at fewer than 20 a day if discussions with the Government do not show enough progress.
The reports link the proposed measures to ongoing negotiations covering funding, workload and GP contract arrangements, as well as pay-related demands. Both outlets describe the move as conditional, with an implied timing that could come into effect before December depending on how negotiations develop. While the reports focus on the potential operational impact on appointment numbers, they do not provide additional detail on which groups of GPs would participate, how the cap would be implemented in specific settings, or what specific Government proposals are being assessed. The overall picture presented is that GPs are preparing contingencies if negotiations do not meet their expectations.
