Overview

One of the key selling points of the 2025/26 GP contract is a reduction in bureaucracy and administrative workload. However, practices may wonder whether these changes will truly ease pressure or simply shift workload elsewhere. This guide breaks down the actual impact of the contract changes on GP workload. 

Key Workload Changes in the 2025/26 Contract

1. Reduction in administrative targets – Fewer QOF indicators requiring reporting.
   
2. Simplified ARRS workforce rules – More flexibility in hiring additional roles.
   
3. Mandatory digital access – Online appointment requests may reduce phone demand but require workflow adjustments.
   
4. Enhanced focus on CVD prevention – While shifting priorities, this could increase initial workload before long-term efficiency gains.
   

Action Points:

1. Identify which workload reductions apply to your practice.
   
2. Implement efficient workflows for online appointment requests.
   
3. Prepare for long-term changes in patient management approaches.
   

Breakdown: Does Workload Increase or Decrease?

1. Reduction in Bureaucracy & Reporting Burden

1. QOF streamlining removes lower-value indicators, reducing unnecessary box-ticking.
   
2. Fewer reporting requirements mean GPs can focus more on patient care rather than compliance.
   

Key Takeaways:

1. Less data entry for certain indicators.
   
2. More flexibility in achieving targets without excessive admin.
   
3. Reduction in low-value workload but still requires effective data recording.
   

2. Increased Digital & Access Requirements

1. Online appointment requests must be available throughout core hours.
   
2. More efficient triaging can reduce phone call burden but requires staff training to manage demand shifts.
   

Key Takeaways:

1. Reduced phone pressure but potential increase in triage workload.
   
2. Investment in digital workflows is necessary.
   
3. Practices must educate patients on using online services correctly.
   

3. ARRS Workforce Expansion & Role Flexibility

1. More flexibility in hiring under ARRS helps reduce strain on GPs.
   
2. Roles such as clinical pharmacists, social prescribers, and physician associates can take on work that previously fell to GPs.
   

Key Takeaways:

1. Greater workforce capacity to manage long-term conditions.
   
2. Must integrate ARRS roles effectively to see benefits
   
3. Training & supervision still required for new staff.

4. Greater Focus on Prevention & Long-Term Management

1. The shift to CVD prevention and proactive care means more initial patient engagement but better long-term outcomes.
   
2. Medication optimisation and lipid management targets could increase short-term consultations.
   

Key Takeaways:

1. Upfront workload increase for risk stratification.
   
2. Long-term reduction in reactive care if prevention is successful.
   
3. Better patient outcomes = lower demand on GPs over time.
   

Final Verdict: Is GP Workload Reduced?

What Can Practices Do?

1. Ensure digital access is implemented smoothly to prevent extra workload.
   
2. Use ARRS staff effectively to distribute tasks appropriately.
   
3. Prioritise prevention efforts to lower demand in future year