Comparison of COVID-19 outcomes among shielded and non-shielded populations.

Many western countries used shielding (extended self-isolation) of people presumed to be at high-risk from COVID-19 to protect them and reduce healthcare demand. To investigate the effectiveness of this strategy, we linked family practitioner, prescribing, laboratory, hospital and death records and compared COVID-19 outcomes among shielded and non-shielded individuals in the West of Scotland. Of the 1.

Do quality incentives change prescribing patterns in primary care? An observational study in Scotland.

Background: The 2004 General Medical Services (GMS) contract introduced financial incentives for the management of chronic illnesses in 10 clinical areas. The effect of the scheme on prescribing is unknown.

Objectives: To quantify the impact of the latest GMS contract, which incorporates additional payments for quality outcomes, on prescribing patterns in GP practices.