If you are worried about the impact of the GP collective action, you can download the Epilepsy Action template letter to fill out and send to your local MP.
The NHS is urging the public to still come forward for care at their GP services as usual during the GP collective action in England, which began on 1 August.
GP practices will still be open from 8am to 6:30pm, the NHS said, but the action will cause disruption to some services. The NHS said it is “vital” that people still attend their appointments unless told otherwise by their GP.
People affected by the GP collective action can seek urgent medical help by calling 111. In a medical emergency, call 999.
In a ballot by the British Medical Association, 98.3% of GPs voted in favour of collective action to oppose the new GP contract, announced by the last government. This only agreed to a 1.9% funding increase for 2024-25.
The England general practitioners committee (GPCE) has called GP practice finances “precarious”. It said it is “greatly concerned” that practices may have to close before the new government can intervene.
Bedrock of the NHS
The collective action, which will continue for an indefinite period of time, is not a strike, the GPCE has said, as services will remain open and contracts won’t be breached.
Instead, GPs will choose actions to take from a list of 10, which are not in breach of contract. They include limiting the number of patients a doctor can see a day to 25 and stopping any voluntary work that GPs are doing.
Dr Amanda Doyle, NHS national director for primary care and community services, said: “GPs and their teams are the bedrock of the NHS, and we recognise they are working really hard and dealing with record demand. On behalf of patients, the NHS has a duty to plan for collective action, and we will continue to work with [the] government to find a resolution and end collective action.
“Our message to the public remains the same – they should continue to come forward for care during this collective action, as GP practices will remain open.”
People with epilepsy affected by the collective action can get advice and support from the Epilepsy Action Helpline at 0808 800 5050. For advice on medicine, people can also speak to their pharmacist.