The GP Contract 25/26 is the formal agreement between NHS England and general practices that defines the services, funding arrangements, and performance expectations for GPs during the 2025-2026 financial year. It outlines what primary care services must be delivered, quality standards that must be met, and how practices will be remunerated for their work. This contract is essential for establishing the framework within which GP practices operate and deliver care to patients.
The GP Contract 25/26 will significantly influence primary care networks (PCNs) by defining collaborative service requirements, network funding, and shared care responsibilities. It's likely to build upon previous contracts by strengthening integration between practices, enhancing multidisciplinary team working, and expanding the role of PCNs in population health management. The contract may also modify the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS), impact the Network Contract DES (Directed Enhanced Service), and adjust how PCNs engage with wider integrated care systems.
While the complete details of the GP Contract 25/26 are still emerging, key changes are expected to include revised funding formulas, updated quality and outcomes framework indicators, and modified service specifications. There may be greater emphasis on digital healthcare delivery, enhanced mental health support provision, and strengthened requirements for managing long-term conditions. The contract is likely to reflect evolving NHS priorities, including addressing health inequalities, improving access to services, and supporting workforce sustainability in primary care.
GP practices can prepare for the GP Contract 25/26 by staying informed through BMA and NHS England communications, reviewing practice data to identify areas for improvement, and conducting a gap analysis against anticipated requirements. Practices should engage with their PCN to understand collaborative opportunities, assess current workforce capacity and skills, and review IT systems to ensure they can support any new digital requirements. Additionally, practices should begin financial modeling based on projected changes and consider staff training needs to deliver any new or modified services specified in the contract.
Various support resources are available to help practices navigate the GP Contract 25/26, including guidance documents and briefings from NHS England, interpretive resources from the British Medical Association (BMA), and dedicated support from Local Medical Committees (LMCs). CCGs and Integrated Care Boards typically offer implementation workshops and advice, while PCN Clinical Directors can provide collaborative interpretation and implementation strategies. Additionally, specialized primary care consultancies offer bespoke support for contract implementation, and professional publications such as Pulse and GP Online regularly provide analysis and practical advice on contract changes.
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