A group of hospital trusts in North West London has paused plans to introduce a single point of access for referrals after concerns from GPs that the approach could restrict their ability to refer patients directly. The proposal involved switching off the direct referral function within electronic referral systems for five specialties, meaning GPs would have to seek advice first. Londonwide and Surrey and Sussex LMCs raised concerns that this had not been co designed with local GP leadership, as required by NHS England guidance.
The LMCs highlighted that while GPs are expected to use advice and guidance where clinically appropriate under the current contract, national guidance is clear that referral pathways must be agreed locally and should not remove the right to refer. They also noted that the current systems are not fit for purpose and can increase workload for practices. In response, the trusts have paused the rollout while concerns are addressed and further engagement takes place with GP representatives.
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