GP Overload: Falls Prevention Fails Seniors

GPs in England are critically overloaded, leading to an unacceptable failure in providing essential care for older adults at risk of falling. The Public Accounts Committee reported that pressure on GP time has intensified, particularly due to the government's focus on improving online access to services.

This has resulted in many GPs being unable to meet contractual obligations to identify and assess frail individuals over 65. During 2024/25, only 17% of these patients were assessed for frailty, with a mere 18% evaluated for fall risks. This neglect comes at a significant cost, with falls costing the UK an estimated £4.4 billion annually.

NHS bosses acknowledge the current position is "not acceptable," recognizing that prioritizing one aspect of care, such as digital access, has negatively impacted support for vulnerable patients. While good performance is possible in some areas, nearly one in three local NHS areas are assessing fewer than 10% of over-65s for frailty and fall risks.

Efforts are underway to explore if other health professionals, like pharmacists, can assist with medication reviews for frail individuals, as polypharmacy increases fall risks. Age UK notes that despite frailty identification being a contractual priority for nearly a decade, tangible improvements for older people remain elusive, with falls having devastating consequences.