Trends in the shortfall of English NHS general practice doctors: repeat cross sectional study (17 September 2025)

Summary

This study compared the numbers and characteristics of English general practitioner doctors (GPs) across publicly available data sources, and to examine trends in GP numbers relative to population growth and the specialist medical workforce in England.

It found that the proportion of GMC licensed GPs not working in NHS general practice increased from 27% (13 492) in 2015 to 34% (19 922) in 2024 by headcount and from 41% (20 210) to 52% (30 351) by full time equivalent GPs. Differences were greatest among female GPs, younger GPs, UK qualified GPs, and GPs in London and the South East of England.

The growing difference between General Medical Council (GMC) licensed GPs and those working in NHS general practice is in contrast with trends among specialists. This shift is occurring despite rising patient demand and policy commitments to strengthen primary care. Addressing the underlying reasons for workforce attrition in NHS general practice is critical to achieving the government’s stated goals of strengthening community based care and shifting the focus of care from treatment to prevention.