Carr-Hill review will be rural proofed, health minister pledges

The unavoidable costs based on geographical areas, including delivering services in rural areas has been considered as part of the Carr-Hill formula review, health minister Stephen Kinnock has said.

The answer follows a question by Hinckley & Bosworth MP Dr Luke Evans (Con) which asked what steps will be taken to consider rural GP practices in the review of the Carr-Hill formula.

Health minister Stephen Kinnock said: “The purpose of the review is to ensure that funding for general practice is distributed equitably and is targeted towards areas that need it most. Given the complexity of the currently funding model, any changes to the formula will be given careful consideration. There is currently no confirmed timetable for the conclusion of the next stage of the review.”

DHSC is yet to answer a question from Dr Luke Evans regarding the discussions with (a) the Dispensing Doctors Association (b) the British Medical Association, and (c) NHS England on NHS England ceasing to centrally fund the EMIS Web dispensing module from 1 April 2026. The question was due for answer on April 22 but Health Secretary Stephen Kinnock has said he is prevented from answering by parliamentary prorogation.

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