RCGP Scotland responds to sustainable payments to general practices

Responding to the Scottish Government's decision to cut the GP Practices Sustainability Payment for 2022-23, Dr David Shackles, Joint Chair of RCGP Scotland said:

"The Royal College of General Practitioners Scotland notes with disappointment the decision by the Scottish Government to reduce the Sustainability Payment to practices.

"With demand reaching sky high levels and shortages of GPs and other staff becoming ever more concerning, our members report implementing emergency measures never before seen.

"The first tranche of the Sustainability Payment has been highly beneficial to practices during a period of unprecedented demand upon primary care. Its reduction by a third will place additional strain on GPs, on the wider practice team, and ultimately will affect the services we are able to deliver to our patients.

"It is a time of serious concern and worry for general practice.

"Now more than ever, GPs require support to maintain quality, continuity of care, and to provide access to the essential healthcare services that patients deserve."

Further information

Media requests to Angus Gould
RCGP Scotland Policy and Public Relations Officer
Tel: 07808 795493

Notes to editor

RCGP Scotland represents a network of around 5,000 doctors in Scotland aiming to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standard of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on resources, education, training, research, and clinical standards.