GPs across England have voted to take collective action including limiting the number of patients seen.

Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive, NHS Providers, said:

“Like so much of the NHS, GPs are under unprecedented pressure. They are an essential part of our health system, helping people to stay well and a gateway to specialist care for those who need it.

“Industrial action by GPs will hit patients hard as wider NHS services feel the knock-on effects.

“Relentless pressure on primary care, plus many practices closing across England, means patients are turning to already busy accident and emergency (A&E) departments to seek help.

“Today’s announcement means even more patients understandably will turn to under-strain A&Es and other highly pressurised services including 111, ambulances and mental health support.

“First-class work done by GPs and primary care services must be valued. The government has pledged to train thousands more GPs and to bring back the ‘family doctor’. More investment is needed to attract, keep hold of and nurture GPs and other vital primary care professionals.”