Category: Opinion

The Changing Face of Medicine project is gathering momentum. As President of the BMA, Professor Pali Hungin launched a project to look into the impact of fast moving technological advances, the shifting role of the doctor, the adequacy of medical education, the nature of public and patient expectations of clinicians, the need for visionary medical leadership, and the well-being of clinicians themselves.

Throughout the last century we have witnessed major advancements for women in the UK, but gender inequalities continue to exist in the workplace. The NHS, established with the intent to treat everyone equally, is no exception. On average, female GPs — who now make up more than half of our workforce — continue to feel undervalued, hold less senior roles, and receive lower pay when compared to men.

When I first qualified as a physician associate (PA), I had no intention to work in general practice, at least until later in my career. I was unsure of the impact a PA could have in a GP setting prior to the much anticipated statutory regulation and associated prescribing rights. Having a physician associate within the practice has meant greater accessibility to appointments, less pressure on the on-call doctor, and improved prescribing rates in certain areas.

Dr Katie Barnett is a Post CCT Fellow with Haxby Group Practice in York and an Honorary Clinical...

Rachel Handscombe is a GP partner in Derbyshire. She is an activity enthusiast and is keen to...

Peter Aird is a GP in Bridgwater, Somerset. Not so long ago, a school uniform committee was set up...