‘We need a transparent and thorough review of Physician Associates’ says College Chair

College Chair Kamila Hawthorne responds to the launch of the independent review of Physician and Anaesthesia Associates by the Health and Social Care Secretary.

Professor Kamila Hawthorne, Chair of the Royal College of GPs, said: “A comprehensive and evidence-based review of the current role of Physician Associates working in the NHS is necessary and welcome, particularly given safety concerns raised by doctors across the health service and the projected expansion of the role in the NHS Long-Term Workforce Plan. 

“In September, the College’s governing Council voted to oppose a role for PAs in general practice citing serious concerns for patient safety. Acknowledging that there are over 2,000 PAs currently working in general practice, the College has since set out a clear scope of practice, as well as guidance on induction and preceptorship and supervision, to maintain high standards of care and patient safety.

“We recognise that this has been a challenging situation for all involved. This is why it is vital to have a transparent and thorough review, which must focus on the best interests of patients and their safety, and draw on the experiences of GPs, and other doctors working across the health service. The College looks forward to feeding into it.”

Further information

RCGP press office: 0203 188 7659
press@rcgp.org.uk

Notes to editors

The Royal College of General Practitioners is a network of more than 54,000 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.