SIR – When is a GP not a doctor? Answer: When he/she is a ‘social worker’.
The British Medical Journal (BMJ) has just published a poll of 1,000 doctors across the UK and its results make for disturbing reading. It seems hundreds of thousands of victims of government cuts are becoming ill and presenting to their GPs for help with social-related problems.
Almost all GPs reported their workload has risen in the past year as the effects of welfare cuts have taken hold.
People have been seeking assistance, with doctors having to write letters appealing against controversial health assessments which cut or stop benefits.
More than two thirds of doctors said the health of their patients is suffering as a result of austerity-driven reforms.
In addition, doctors mention an increase in non-medical problems, such as debt, unemployment and housing issues affecting their patients adversely.
A BMJ spokesperson said, “Many GPs feel they are now being forced to act as a surrogate social service.”
David Hornsby, West View Avenue, Wrose
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