The importance of continuity of care
Is continuity of care between GPs and their patients essential? A recent study has highlighted the widespread threat to GP continuity of care in the UK, a core principle of our practice. Researchers at the University of Leicester analysed data from over 6,000 general practices in England. They found that a decline in continuity has been exacerbated by the Covid pandemic and fewer GP appointments being available.
Defining continuity of care
The Royal College of General Practitioners defines continuity of care as “the extent to which a person experiences an ongoing relationship with a clinician… Both doctor and patient contribute to its creation and maintenance.”
At GP London W1, we offer patients access to their own dedicated GP with the added benefit of smaller waiting lists, allowing us to spend more time with each patient. If your doctor is on annual leave or unwell, you can be assured of the same level of care from one of our other doctors.
“We are a very close-knit team which can only benefit our patients,” Dr Caroline Wall explains. “Our approach to medicine is the same, and we constantly share ideas or ask each other for advice. Our patients know that they will receive the same level of care whoever they see.”
The benefits of continuity of care
Published in the Annals of Family Medicine, the University of Leicester study follows up on work done earlier this year by the same academics on the benefits that continuity of care brings for patients.
Continuity of care has been proven to reduce the need for out-of-hours care and emergency hospitalisations and to extend life expectancy.
The impact on mortality rates is believed to be because continuity of care means patients are more likely to follow important medical advice and adhere to long-term medical regimes. They are also more likely to embrace preventative measures such as immunisations or health screening.
Continuity is essential to certain patient groups. Those living with multiple long-term conditions, the elderly and those with mental health difficulties greatly benefit from continuity of care. Diabetic patients, for example, gain a better understanding of their illness and better quality of diabetes management.
By building trust and honesty over time, patients are more likely to give their doctor relevant information or discuss concerns. This means we can tailor our advice and management plans more effectively. As doctors, we learn what is typical for patients and are better placed to spot anything that needs investigating further.
Call us on +44 (0)20 4580 1152 or email us on [email protected] to arrange a private GP appointment.
