Models of paramedic involvement in general practice

There is a continued increase in demand for both planned and same-day primary care. The reality that the number of qualified full-time equivalent GPs in England fell once more to under 29 000 at the end of 2018,1 means that new models of working are necessary if general practice is to withstand these pressures. In addition to committing to recruit and train more than 3000 additional GPs over the next few years, the NHS England GP Forward View proposes greater development of the multidisciplinary, integrated primary care workforce, capitalising on the value that allied healthcare professionals can bring support to front line service delivery.2 The recent announcement of funding for 20 000 additional allied professionals and clinical support staff over the next 5 years further founds a trajectory that more patient care should be delivered by non-GPs.3 The GP Forward View specifically highlights the skills of paramedics, and suggests that general practice should look to make greater use of this professional group.2 While acknowledging that scope of practice may vary, particular examples of perceived benefit include the management of minor illness, undertaking of home visits, and the provision of same day ‘urgent’ primary care.