Patients with long-term conditions: continuity of care at the GP
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Healthwatch Liverpool explored continuity of care for people with long-term health conditions through surveys, engagement with support groups and feedback from more than 1,000 patients attending GP practices. The research found that while many patients prioritised getting an appointment quickly, those with long-term conditions often placed greater importance on seeing the same GP, nurse or healthcare professional regularly. Continuity of care was valued because it helped build relationships, reduced the need to repeat information and improved confidence in managing long-term conditions.
Among respondents with long-term conditions, most preferred to see a particular GP or nurse, but many were not always able to do so. Patients reported that seeing different clinicians could lead to inconsistent advice and make it harder to manage ongoing health problems. Several respondents highlighted the importance of continuity for conditions such as stroke, respiratory disease, mental health problems and dementia, although some also reported positive experiences with locum doctors and specialist services.
The report found that many patients valued support from specialist community services and voluntary organisations alongside GP care. Groups such as the Stroke Association and British Lung Foundation were praised for providing information, peer support and practical help. Feedback suggested that community-based services for long-term conditions, such as diabetes clinics, could improve access to care while maintaining continuity and specialist expertise closer to home.
Healthwatch concluded that continuity of care remains an important aspect of primary care for many patients with long-term conditions. The report highlighted evidence that continuity can improve patient experience and reduce hospital admissions. It recommended that, as GP services continue to evolve, commissioners and providers should consider how continuity can be maintained through both GP practices and specialist community services, while continuing to gather patient feedback on the impact of changes to primary care.