Fears a third of GPs will quit the NHS within 5 years

A “MASS exodus” of GPs from the NHS could mean one in three leave their jobs within five years, the Royal College of GPs has warned.

- BY HANNA GEISSLER Health Editor

Its survey of 2,100 members found 73% felt workload pressures were compromising patient safety, and fewer than 30% had enough time with patients during consultations.

Almost a third said they were unlikely to be working in general practice in five years’ time. Among those considering leaving, stress was the top factor for 44%.

Four in 10 of those unlikely to remain in the NHS wanted a better work/life balance, and 39% planned to retire.

Unmanageable stress is being driven by excessive workloads and high levels of unnecessary bureaucracy, according to the college.

STRESSED

Some 28% of doctors polled said they felt so stressed they could not cope at least once a week, although this was down from 40% a year ago.