Future models of general practice

Abstract

The partnership model has been at the heart of UK general practice since the beginning of the NHS. In recent years new models of care have emerged that both challenge and complement the partnership model. These include: Federations; Super-partnerships; Accountable Care Organisations; and Multispecialty Community Providers. Many are questioning whether the partnership model can survive, and whether small independent practices will become a thing of the past. This article examines what these new models of care are, where they have come from, and looks at the future of the partnership model.