GPs say more time with patients is needed

A new survey by health insurance company Aviva has revealed that overstretched GPs feel they need more time to see their patients.

Over half of those questioned (57 per cent) said that they have less time to see patients now than they did five years ago.

Some 50 per cent admit that this has affected their ability to do their job, while 43 per cent say a lack of time with patients makes it harder for them to come to an accurate diagnosis.

Current NHS practice is to allocate ten minutes for each GP consultation. However, 89 per cent of practitioners say they would ideally take up to 20 minutes for each appointment.

Dr Hugh Laing, practising GP and chief medical officer at Aviva UK Health, said: "While the coalition government has outlined its health policies focusing on improving access to GPs and offering a wider choice of doctors, both patients and GPs are clearly demanding a better GP experience, and access times and choice are just one piece of this jigsaw."

Medical insurance providers, including Aviva, offer private access to GPs, as well as reduced waiting times for consultations.

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