Clin Med
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This article explores the role of a GP with a special interest in acute medicine working with secondary care. The reasons why such a role may be helpful are outlined. ⋯ It is argued that while the primary/secondary care interface is widening, objectives on both sides are the same. It is suggested that future training programmes should allow enough flexibility for this role to evolve.
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Since the purchaser/provider split was first introduced in the early 1990s, there have been successive attempts to enhance and strengthen the role of commissioners in the English NHS. Their role is to ensure that health services are planned and delivered in a way that meets the interests of patients and taxpayers rather than healthcare providers. ⋯ It is too early to say whether these reforms are likely to transform commissioning and finally place payers, rather than providers, in the driving seat of the NHS. However they unfold they are likely to have a significant impact on healthcare professionals in commissioning, primary care and specialist roles.