A newly created GP federation in Exeter has been formed to allow the practices to compete for primary care services that commissioners decide to put out to tender.
Exeter Primary Care Ltd will be the only way to secure some contracts with GP practices in the area.
The group of 16 GP practices hopes this will protect income streams.
The executive board is formed of local GPs and practice managers, with GP partner Dr Sally Ewings as chief medical officer and Elizabeth Deasy – who comes from an NHS hospital management background – as CEO.
A statement from the group reads: “The immediate aim of EPC is to build good relationships with the commissioners and other providers of healthcare for our patients so that we are ready when opportunities arise to work with them to deliver improved or new services.
“As well as responding to bid invitations we will be seeking to initiate service improvements through our unique understanding of the Exeter healthcare market.”
