RCGP and BMA statement on the latest plans for GPDPR

Health Minister Jo Churchill has today written to all GPs in England, setting out plans for the next steps for the GP Data for Planning and Research (GPDPR) programme and extending the timeframe beyond 1 September.

The RCGP and BMA have been closely involved in discussions over the steps that are necessary before any data collection can commence under GPDPR, and welcome the commitments made in these latest plans.

We have always recognised the crucial role that GP data has to play in research and planning which can improve public health, but have made it clear that it is important for patients and the public that this data is only made available for appropriate purposes, and in a secure and trusted manner.

We are encouraged by the plans outlined today which will allow more time for improvements to be made to the GPDPR programme and to build understanding and trust amongst the public and the healthcare system. In today’s letter, the Health Minister commits to ensuring data collection will only begin once important conditions have been met.

We have consistently called for greater and improved communications and engagement around the programme, as well as for a number of improvements to the programme itself. These improvements include the need to simplify Type 1 opt-out processes, ensure the right to deletion of data that has been collected by NHS Digital prior to a type 1 opt-out being registered, and to ensure the security of data collected, by committing not to disseminate data but instead exclusively making data available via a trusted research environment.

It is positive to see that key points have been acknowledged and addressed in the latest plans. We will continue to work closely with the government, NHSX and NHS Digital to ensure that these plans are delivered appropriately and to represent the views of our members as the programme develops.

Further information

(For media only)

RCGP Press office – 020 3188 7633/7494/7574
Out of hours: 020 3188 7659 
press@rcgp.org.uk

Notes to editor

The Royal College of General Practitioners is a network of more than 52,000 family doctors working to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standards of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on education, training, research and clinical standards.