A study from BJGP Open suggests that relational continuity in English general practice is stronger for some groups, including older adults with polypharmacy and patients who are more likely to see a preferred GP. That matters because continuity is not just a sentimental ideal. It is closely tied to trust, context, and safer long-term care. In an NHS under pressure, access often dominates the conversation. But this paper is a useful reminder that speed of access and continuity of care are not interchangeable. For many patients, especially those with more complex needs, seeing a familiar clinician may still carry real value.
Key Takeaway
The study suggests that relational continuity in England is unevenly distributed and appears stronger where patients repeatedly see a preferred GP. Older adults with polypharmacy may be more likely to experience that continuity, which raises important questions about who benefits from it and who misses out.
Why This Matters for General Practice
- Relational continuity can improve clinical context, reduce repetition, and support better shared decision making.
- Patients with multimorbidity or complex prescribing may particularly benefit from a clinician who knows their history.
- Current access models can unintentionally erode continuity if practices optimise only for speed or volume.
Questions for Reflection
- Are current booking systems helping patients see their preferred GP when it matters most?
- Which patient groups in a practice are most likely to lose continuity under high-demand access models?
- How should practices balance rapid access with relationship-based care for patients with complex needs?
Bottom Line
This BJGP Open paper is a timely reminder that relational continuity still matters in English general practice. If access reform sidelines continuity, the patients with the greatest need for joined-up care may be the ones who lose most. Source: BJGP Open – view the original article.