Top Medic Warns of Surge in Abuse Targeting GP Teams
Dr. Claire Fuller, primary care medical director for NHS England, stressed that it is not acceptable to criticize GPs who are working tirelessly.
An alarming increase in abuse targeting GP teams has been noted, which is directly linked to doctors leaving the profession, according to one of England’s leading medical professionals.
Dr. Fuller emphasized that GPs are “exhausted” and putting in maximum effort, making it unfair to “bash” them. She cited workload and lack of respect as key reasons why GPs choose to leave their profession.
She highlighted the surge in violence towards primary care teams, including physical and verbal attacks, which is unacceptably high. This kind of abuse takes a toll on healthcare professionals who are already under tremendous pressure.
Recent data from a survey revealed that over 80% of GP teams in the UK have experienced verbal abuse from patients.
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) conducted a survey in October 2024 with 1,855 doctors, including 690 GPs, participating. Shockingly, 84% of the GPs reported instances of verbal abuse directed at their team.
Furthermore, some GPs disclosed experiencing physical violence (28%), racial abuse (35%), and sexual abuse (15%) from patients.
The chief medical officer at MDDUS, Dr. John Holden, highlighted that such violence and abuse have severe consequences on NHS staff, often leading them to take sick leave or contemplate leaving the profession altogether.
Despite indications of progress in general practice, Dr. Fuller emphasized the importance of supporting GPs and acknowledging their hard work instead of criticizing them in the media.
She noted that while challenges remain, improvements are being observed in general practice across the country, with more GPs staying in the profession and enhanced patient experiences in accessing care.
These positive developments align with the upcoming 10 Year Health Plan, which aims to transfer more care from hospitals to the community, focus on preventive healthcare, and utilize data and technology more effectively. Dr. Fuller emphasized the crucial role that all primary care providers will play in these transformative shifts.
