New figures published show an extra 284 GPs have been recruited in the Midlands since 1 October.

The additional GPs will improve access to primary care and provide more appointments for those that need them across the region.

Last year, the government announced an additional £82 million to employ 1,000 GPs via the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS).

The ARRS scheme was introduced to improve access to general practice. From 1 October 2024, primary care networks (PCNs) could claim reimbursement for the salaries of newly qualified GPs through the scheme.

PCNs across the Midlands have recruited over a quarter of the national target to improve access for patients, support the delivery of new services and increase the number of appointments available.

Bestwood and Sherwood PCN in Nottingham has increased the number of same day appointments available to patients by employing an additional GP through the scheme.

The PCN which serves a total of 55,000 patients across eight practices has created over 80 additional same day appointments a week, benefitting the local population.

Dr Tolulope Atiomo, Deputy Clinical Director of Bestwood and Sherwood PCN said: “Through the ARRS scheme we have been able to significantly increase the number of same day appointments available across Bestwood and Sherwood PCN.

“We are now able to see more patients each week and ensure that appointments are available to those who need one.

“We have now extended the scheme for another 12 months and we are looking how we can further use ARRS funding to benefit our patients.”

Small Heath PCN in Birmingham has also increased the number of appointments available through the ARRS scheme.

Dr Asia Katunda was recruited as an ARRS GP at Small Heath PCN under the scheme.

Dr Katunda said: “I currently work as an ARRS GP covering two practices in inner city Birmingham with a very diverse population in an area of high social deprivation. Most of my appointments are same day acute problems with a few chronic illness and medication reviews.

“The scheme is a great way to improve access and provide additional appointments to those that need them. I am also grateful for the extra support and guidance the scheme has given me to help my career progress as a GP.”

Trish Thompson, Director of Primary care at NHS England Midlands said: “The ARRS scheme has been a real success in the Midlands. Currently, we have an additional 284 GPs treating patients across the region with more to come.

“Thanks to GPs and their hardworking teams, thousands more appointments are being delivered every month in the Midlands making it easier for patients to access the care they need.”

Through the scheme, PCNs can also claim reimbursement for the salaries of 17 other roles within the multidisciplinary team, to meet the needs of the local population, including social prescribers, dieticians and clinical pharmacists.

The recruitment boost will mean more people in the Midlands will be more readily able to receive timely care in the community.