Primary Care Networks bring together neighbouring GP practices and other health, social care, and voluntary sector organisations to deliver coordinated healthcare services.
Working as a network enables practices to share expertise, develop new services, and provide patients with access to a broader team of healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, physiotherapists, mental health practitioners, and social prescribing link workers.
How does a Primary Care Network fit with your GP practice?
Your GP practice remains your main point of contact for healthcare. As part of a Primary Care Network (PCN), your practice works closely with neighbouring GP practices and a wider team of healthcare professionals to provide the care and support you need.
This means that, depending on your needs, you may be offered an appointment with another qualified healthcare professional, such as a clinical pharmacist, musculoskeletal specialist, mental health practitioner, care coordinator, or another member of the healthcare team. These professionals work alongside your GP practice as part of the PCN team.
Your GP may not always be the most appropriate healthcare professional to meet your needs. By working as part of a wider network, your practice can help ensure you see the right person, at the right time, and receive the most appropriate care for your condition or concern.
While your GP practice remains at the centre of your care, access to a broader team means you can benefit from a wider range of expertise, services, and support closer to home.
By working together, the PCN helps provide faster access to the right care, supports people with long-term health conditions, and improves coordination between health and community services.
Your GP practice remains responsible for your care, but being part of a Primary Care Network gives you access to a broader range of services and expertise closer to home.
