Responding to the GMC’s National Training Survey, Professor
Martin Marshall, Chair of the Royal College of GPs, said: “GPs
have been working incredibly hard during the pandemic under
intense workload and workforce pressures, and this is
understandably taking its toll on GP trainees and their trainers,
as this survey shows.
"Over the last year, general practice has continued to deliver
vital care and services to patients, as well as delivering around
two thirds of the Covid vaccination programme. The latest figures
from the College's Research and Surveillance Centre shows
consultation rates exceeding pre-pandemic numbers. As a result,
more GPs - both trainees and trainers - are reporting feeling
burnt out and emotionally exhausted than they did before the
pandemic. Our trainees are the future of the profession and the
care we are able to deliver to patients in general practice, so
we must address these issues.
“A lot of great work has gone into increasing trainee numbers in
general practice and we don’t want to see this progress regress.
This is why we urgently need to see government address the
workload pressures facing the profession by delivering on their
manifesto pledge of an additional 6000 GPs to enter the workforce
by 2024, as well as initiatives in place to prevent experienced
GPs from burning out due to heavy workloads. This will help to
ensure GP trainers have the time that they need to spend with
trainees, and that trainees feel supported."
