Many GPs have not been informed about the additional funding to improve older people’s services in England, the British Medical Association (BMA) has warned.
Half of GPs surveyed by the BMA said they had not been asked to propose spending plans for the extra funding for patients aged over 75.
But over 70% of GPs said they would spend it on community nursing or more practice nursing time, if asked.
Practices are eligible for an additional £5 per head as part of an enhanced service in 2014/15.
The government hopes the additional funding will reduce avoidable hospital admissions for vulnerable older adults.
BMA GP Committee negotiator Beth McCarron-Nash said the findings are “disappointing”.
She said: “It is really important that practices are able to apply for this funding and be supported in their plans by their CCGs and it is disappointing to hear that this is not happening.
“Many CCGs are struggling to find the extra money. This is not ring-fenced money and CCGs are expected to find this in their already bulging baselines. It is vital that practices get this available funding to support vulnerable older patients.”
