Labour changes to online GP bookings put patients' safety at risk, doctors warn

Published: 23:25, 9 August 2026 | Updated: 23:48, 9 August 2026 Patient safety has been put at risk after Labour changes to GP appointment bookings led to fewer face–to–face consultations, doctors have warned. Since October 1, all GP practices in England must accept queries and booking requests made online between 8.30am and 6pm on week days. But a poll of 330 GPs and 242 practice managers found a third (32 per cent) had been forced to cut in–person appointments they deliver as a result. Meanwhile, 25 per cent say the requirements have put patient safety at risk, the survey by journals Pulse and Management In Practice found, because dealing with patients remotely makes it less likely that GPs will spot symptoms of serious diseases such as cancer. According to NHS England, the proportion of GP appointments in England carried out face to face is falling, while that of those by phone or online is rising.  In June, 60.2 per cent of patients were seen in person, compared with 62.9 per cent in June 2025 and 64.9 per cent in June 2024. Patient groups, MPs and the British Medical Association have warned of the risks. Dr Manu Agrawal, deputy chairman of the BMA's GP committee, said: 'Our view is backed by this survey. The online request system is unsafe.' Patient safety has been put at risk after Labour changes to GP appointment bookings led to fewer face–to–face consultations, doctors have warned The Department of Health and Social Care said 2,000 extra GPs had been recruited since July 2024, and insisted: 'GPs are required to provide face–to–face appointments alongside remote consultations.' NHS England said GPs carried out a million more face–to–face consultations in June than in the same month last year.