As the Member of Parliament for North Down, I was proud to bring forward my first Adjournment Debate in the House of Commons to shine a spotlight on one of the most pressing issues facing our healthcare system – access to GP services and the need to preserve face-to-face appointments for patients.
Across the United Kingdom, from North Down to Wolverhampton, from Cornwall to Cheadle, there is a shared concern: patients are struggling to see their GP. While I recognise the benefits that digital innovations can bring to healthcare, the reality is that many people, particularly our elderly and vulnerable populations, rely heavily on personal, face-to-face interaction with their doctor. In Northern Ireland, we continue to fall behind – with only 57% of GP appointments conducted face to face, compared to 70% in England.
We must remember that GPs are the cornerstone of our NHS. They are often the first point of contact for individuals seeking medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. They manage chronic illnesses, deliver preventative care, and play a critical role in improving health outcomes in our communities. However, our GPs are under immense pressure. In Northern Ireland, 38 GP practices have closed over the past decade, with 17 contracts handed back just since April 2023. This is unsustainable.
I was also alarmed by the fact that Northern Ireland has the lowest investment in GP services compared with the rest of the UK. We need equality in healthcare provision. It is unacceptable that people in North Down, and Northern Ireland more broadly, are being short-changed. The disparity must be addressed.
During the debate, I received cross-party support from colleagues across the UK, all echoing the same concerns: GP surgeries need greater support, infrastructure investment must keep pace with new housing developments, and we must stop the slide toward a two-tier healthcare system, where only those who can afford private treatment get timely care.
I urge the Government and the Department of Health to act decisively. We need targeted funding to recruit and retain GPs, action to support surgeries struggling with infrastructure or indemnity costs, and the implementation of smart reforms like the Pharmacy First programme, which can alleviate pressure on our GPs.
The figures speak for themselves: every £1 invested in GP services returns £14 to the local economy. This is not just about healthcare; it’s about economic resilience and social wellbeing. Access to GP services must be a right, not a privilege.
I call on the Government to recognise the urgency of this situation. Northern Ireland deserves better – and I will continue to speak up for my constituents until meaningful action is taken.
I also call on both the Northern Ireland Executive and the Westminster Government to recognise the serious situation our GP services are in. Without coordinated support, sustained investment, and urgent action, we risk a continued erosion of front-line healthcare and worsening health outcomes for our communities.
Alex Easton MP
Member of Parliament for North Down
