Northern Ireland GPs asked to consider mass resignations due to pressures

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For the past two years the BMA has been highlighting that GPs are under increasing pressure

GPs in Northern Ireland are to be canvassed about the possibility of submitting mass resignations.

They are being asked to consider the move if the government fails to negotiate a rescue package within six months.

According to the British Medical Association there would be no date on the resignations.

For the past two years the BMA has been highlighting that GPs are under increasing pressure.

An ageing population means that a number of practices simply cannot cope, with a warning of 20 practices due to close.

There is the added problem that there are not enough doctors being trained to cope with the demand.

According to the BMA, the conference also agreed that the local GP committee should consider balloting members on what work or services must cease, in order to reduce workloads to ensure safe and sustainable care for patients.

GPs will also be asked what further actions GPs could take without breaching their contracts.

Members also backed calls for a public petition and campaign to urge politicians and the health minister to develop an emergency package of measures to save general practice.