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As a GP, I know that Sajid Javid’s £250m is a sticking plaster that will not cover up the deeper problems in our practicesMy day today started at 6am, faced with a roster of e-consults, alongside breastfeeding breaks and nappy changes, occasionally interrupted by a vocal toddler running in when he tires of daddy daycare. I am a part-time GP, and mother to a two-year-old and a six-month-old. It’s not how I envisioned my medical career – but it works for me, for now. In our brave new world of telemedicine and remote consulting, I was able to return to work for the NHS when my baby was only a month old, while arranging face-to-face appointments with colleagues judged on what I feel my patient needs.Today’s plans from Sajid Javid to “ramp up” in-person consultations, are no more than a political soundbite; his offer of £250m a soggy sticking plaster which cannot buy non-existing GPs or extra consulting rooms. So am I the problem? If you want to play the government’s blame game then I’m an easy target – part-time, a remote worker. Javid announced plans to list surgeries on league tables, exposing those failing to offer appropriate “access” to patients – essentially naming and shaming practices. However, viewed another way, I could be part of the solution. Flexible working needs to be welcomed within the NHS in an attempt to hold on to an ever-dwindling, increasingly burnt-out workforce. I can be a mum, provide for my family and continue to contribute to the NHS.Dr Ellen Welch is a GP and editorial lead with the Doctors’ Association UK. Her book, How the NHS coped with Covid-19, is out soon Continue reading...