General Medical Services Contract 2020
The General Medical Services (GMS) Contract 2020 was announced on January 6, 2020, by the NHS England and NHS Improvement. This contract aims to improve the quality of care provided by the GMS practices and to promote innovation in the healthcare sector. The contract focuses on a range of different areas, including improving the delivery of primary care services, integrating digital technologies, and promoting the well-being of the workforce.
One of the key changes introduced by the GMS Contract 2020 is the introduction of a new Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF). The QOF is designed to provide a framework for measuring the quality of care provided by GMS practices. It comprises of a range of different indicators, including clinical indicators, public health indicators, and patient experience indicators. The QOF is designed to promote the provision of high-quality care by rewarding practices that achieve high levels of performance across these different domains.
Another key feature of the GMS Contract 2020 is the introduction of a new Digital First Primary Care (DFPC) Programme. This programme aims to promote the use of digital technologies in the delivery of primary care services. The DFPC programme consists of a range of different initiatives, including the development of online appointment booking systems, the use of video consultations, and the implementation of electronic prescribing.
In addition to these changes, the GMS Contract 2020 also includes a range of other measures designed to improve the delivery of primary care services. These include the introduction of a new service for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the expansion of the Pharmacy Integration Fund, and the introduction of a new scheme to support the recruitment and retention of GPs.
Overall, the General Medical Services Contract 2020 represents a significant shift in the way that primary care services are delivered in the UK. By focusing on promoting high-quality care, integrating digital technologies, and supporting the workforce, this contract aims to provide better outcomes for patients and a more sustainable future for the NHS. As such, it represents an important step forward in the ongoing evolution of the UK healthcare system.