Welsh labour ministers must address large GP shortfall in Wales

Wales needs to have a strategy to tackle GP shortages according to the British Medical Association (BMA).

The BMA said they have anecdotal evidence to suggest that there is a large increase in the number of GPs working part-time in Wales rather than full-time due to increased workplace pressures.

A recent survey by them suggested that 30% of GPs in Wales are looking to reduce their working hours or retire early – with 40% considering doing so next year.

There is also a call for more to be done to persuade pupils from rural parts of Wales to study medicine, and to investigate the reasons why so many graduates leave Wales after training.

Commenting on the findings, Welsh Conservative Shadow Health Minister, Russell George MS said:

“Successive Welsh Labour Governments have failed to heed warnings from organisations like the British Medical Association which has led to a serious crisis in GP recruitment and retention.

 

“The pandemic has added considerable pressure to workloads and the day-to-day environment, whilst the GP shortage in our rural communities has been exacerbated.

 

“GPs have been warning of this crisis for years, but Labour ministers have consistently ignored them. This must change if we are to ensure frontline staff strike the right work-life balance and receive the rewards they deserve.

 

“This report emphasises the need for ministers to urgently implement a new long-term plan for the Welsh NHS, including action to improve recruitment and retention initiatives for GPs.”

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