Funding in primary care

Abstract

The mechanisms for funding primary care are complex, due to the historical legacy of the many changes in UK general practice, and can be difficult to understand. This article gives a basic outline of how primary care is funded and where individual practices earn income. It explains several of the financial and contractual terms for GPs and discusses some of the current issues in funding. Although much is similar, mechanisms underlying GP funding differ between the four home nations. This article focuses on primary care funding in England.

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