We want people to be able to access GP services more quickly. We support GP practices to improve and expand their buildings and digital systems.
Most GP surgeries are not owned by the NHS. They are owned or leased by GPs who operate as independent contractors. The GP partners who run practices are responsible for making sure their buildings and facilities meet the needs of registered patients and required patient safety standards.
We help GP practices access government funding, such as the Primary Care Utilisation and Modernisation Fund, to improve their buildings, modernise facilities and create more clinical space to support more patients. Practices can apply for funding for a range of improvements, including:
- extending surgeries to create more space
- making premises more accessible
- upgrading telephone systems to improve the patient experience
- digitising patient records so file storage rooms can be used as consulting rooms
NHS Essex also has a limited pot of money to fund improvements to healthcare buildings in line with our agreed priorities