BMA welcomes increase in training places and MDT roll out

Commenting on today’s announcement of a further 10 GP training places Dr Alan Stout, BMA NI GP committee chair said, “This move from the minister is very welcome. Increasing our workforce is central to improving access to GP services as we currently do not have enough GPs to meet the needs of all our patients. Opening up the training programme to more junior doctors will help address some of those issues. I am confident that all of the places will be filled.

 

“The next stage in the roll out of multi-disciplinary teams is also very welcome. Multi-disciplinary teams help make sure that GPs are only speaking to patients who really need to speak to a doctor, while other members of the team can deal with queries that do not need immediate medical attention. We look forward to seeing the full roll out of MDTs across Northern Ireland so everyone has equal access to and can benefit from their services.”

Notes to editors

The BMA is a trade union and professional association representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.