I work mostly as a GP, but I also help manage the NHS working with the local Primary Care Trust (PCT). There are so many changes taking place in the NHS and so much pressure being put on people who work in it at the moment. I really wanted to let people know what’s going on, and not just defend the NHS, but recognise that it really does need some changes to take place. At the moment, change just isn’t happening constructively, because there is too much pressure in the system, and most of it seems to be in the wrong place or being applied in the wrong way and actually just increasing frustration.

Working as a GP is a great job, lots of variety, lots of challenge, and at times lots of pressure. I’m very lucky. But General Practice needs to change to accommodate 21st century health care and that is a big challenge. I intend to write more about this and other issues in the reform of the NHS. And that was one of the reasons for starting a blog, it seemed a great way to get feedback from others about change, as well as informing them.

I think this is what blogging is all about, personal views, without the prose or smart writing, but honest and open and not necessarily right or wrong. In the case of the NHS, perhaps just lifting the lid a little bit on a world that can sometimes be driven by huge personal agendas, vested interest,vendettas, bitter rivalry and deep division that at times might surprise people. (and that’s just the doctors by the way, I haven’t got round to nurses and managers yet
..)

And it’s not just about the NHS, I hope to write about lots of other things that I am or have been involved in, especially football in general and Newcastle United FC in particular ( I was club doctor and spent 11 years of my life there). I am also passionate and proud to be a Geordie, and often get upset at the way I feel politicians locally have sold us down the river for generations, whilst trying to blame southerners for all our problems. (Not that they necessarily haven’t got a lot to do with them.)

I write for no particular group of people, and so will always try and explain technical terms when they arise. I would like what I have to say to be accessible to all and hope that what I write informs. It would be nice if it entertained a little as well. I don’t know how long I will keep it up for but what the hell, I’m sure I’ll learn something from it. I hope you do too.

Your views are really welcome, please feel free to comment, and I will do my best to reply if that is what is asked for.