GP workforce sustainability to maximise effective and equitable patient care: a realist review of what works, for whom and in what circumstances?

Background: UK general practice has been described as being in crisis. A shortage and exodus of GPs is an urgent and challenging problem, attracting significant media attention, widespread public debate, and policy action.

Aim: Our review aims to examine which aspects of the healthcare system affect GP workforce sustainability, how, why, and for whom.

General practitioner workforce sustainability to maximise effective and equitable patient care: a realist review protocol.

Introduction: There are not enough general practitioners (GPs) in the UK National Health Service. This problem is worse in areas of the country where poverty and underinvestment in health and social care mean patients experience poorer health compared with wealthier regions. Encouraging more doctors to choose and continue in a GP career is a government priority.