AQO 1434/22-27

Ms Sian Mulholland
Alliance Party
North Antrim

Tabled Date: 16/01/2025
Answered On Date: 27/01/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the review of GP indemnity.

Answer:

I recognise that arrangements for clinical negligence indemnity are a matter of concern for GPs locally.

My Department has been exploring options for the long-term future of GP Indemnity and I recognise that the pace of progress in this work has taken longer than expected however, this reflects the complexity of the issue.

I had committed that this work would conclude with proposals for the long-term solution by the end of 2024. I am pleased to advise that, after careful consideration of a wide range of options, I have identified what I believe is the best, most appropriate option to address this key issue for the long term.

As part of the 2025/26 contract negotiations, my Department has met with the Northern Ireland General Practice Committee and provided details of the long-term proposal for GP indemnity. I am hopeful that we will soon be able to reach agreement on this important matter.