The Conference of England Local Medical Committees (LMCs) 2023 took place on Thursday 23rd and Friday 24th November. LMC representatives gathered to debate key issues affecting general practice and primary care, shaping policy and advocacy for the year ahead. The event also included elections for key leadership positions.
Key Resolutions Passed
The conference addressed critical topics through resolutions, including:
- COVID-19 Vaccination Programme:
Delegates expressed dismay at NHS England's handling of the programme, including reduced Item of Service (IOS) payments and sudden timeline changes. Resolutions called for higher IOS payments, annual inflationary adjustments, and equitable terms with pharmacy services. Practices demanded at least six weeks' notice for programme changes. - ADHD Services:
Resolutions highlighted the need for a national self-referral system, enhanced funding for under-resourced ADHD services, and the establishment of annual ADHD health checks. Delegates also called for accredited career pathways for GPs specialising in ADHD. - Workload Capping:
Recognising that general practice workloads have surpassed safe limits, delegates supported implementing "safe working limits" in contract negotiations, establishing waiting lists for routine appointments, and creating triage services to manage excess demand. - GP-to-Patient Ratios:
A motion to establish minimum GP-to-patient ratios was carried, aiming to hold NHS England accountable and highlight the quality of traditional general practice compared to private sector alternatives. - Retention and Recruitment:
Resolutions called for reforms to the GP Retention Scheme, including removing time limits on eligibility, increasing government investment, and expanding support for GPs at all career stages.
Election Results
The conference elected key representatives to lead future initiatives:
- Chair of England Conference: Elliott Singer
- Deputy Chair of England Conference: Clare Sieber
- Agenda Committee Members: William Denby, Paul Evans, Simon Minkoff, Roger Scott, and Deborah White.
Challenges Ahead
While many motions were successfully carried, the conference also saw critical discussions on unresolved issues, such as the integration of advanced technology in practices, reforming NHS pensions, and addressing gaps in primary care estates.
The full details of resolutions, election results, and motions debated can be found in the Conference News, available on the BMA website.
Looking Forward
The 2023 Conference reaffirmed the dedication of LMCs to improving the working conditions for GPs and ensuring sustainable, high-quality care for patients. Kirklees LMC encourages all members to review the resolutions and stay engaged as these policies take shape.
