The Conservative Party has pledged to build 100 new GP surgeries in England and expand community care services to alleviate pressure on hospitals if they win the upcoming general election. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the plan, which includes expanding the Pharmacy First scheme, currently allowing pharmacists to treat seven common conditions without a GP visit. The expansion would enable pharmacies to offer more services, such as contraceptive patches and treatments for acne and chest infections, potentially freeing up 20 million GP appointments.
In addition to new surgeries, the Conservatives plan to establish 50 new Community Diagnostic Centres, projected to deliver 2.5 million tests annually. This £1bn per year initiative would be funded by reducing NHS management to pre-pandemic levels and cutting government consultancy expenditures.
Labour's Wes Streeting criticized the proposal, claiming the Conservatives have previously failed to meet their healthcare promises. The Liberal Democrats also outlined their health priorities, focusing on increased funding for preventive services and boosting GP numbers.
Separately, the Conservatives plan to allocate £20m to Abertillery in Gwent as part of a broader regeneration effort involving 100 towns. This initiative, intended to enhance local economies and improve high streets, gives residents control over how funding is utilized. Prime Minister Sunak and Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove emphasized the initiative's goal of creating better jobs and infrastructure.