Primary care networks (PCNs) are a key element in the NHS long term plan, which set out the NHS’ ambition to boost out-of-hospital care and dissolve the historic divide between primary and community health services.

The plan recognised, however, that achieving these ambitions requires significant action to overcome the severe workforce crisis in general practice and tackle the pressures facing GPs and primary care.

NHS Providers policy advisor Ella Jackson outlines what primary care networks (PCNs) are, how they will be formed and the difference they will make for patients.