Madam,

I have no wish to be a prophet of doom, but I do believe that when research reveals harsh indications it is only fair to advise those likely to be affected of what they might expect, if only so they realise that services are very likely to be subject to change.

A survey of general practice trainees, carried out this summer by the well-respected health think-tank the King’s Fund, found that only a fifth planned to be working full-time a year after qualifying. The proportion planning to be working full-time after 10 years was the same.

They are not alone. Surveys show a similar trend across the world, with fewer than 10 per cent of physicians choosing family medicine in some countries.

Truth is that portfolio careers are available and life-work balance has become a goal in itself for many.

All is not lost. It is already being demonstrated that many elements of GPs’ work can be equally well performed by more specialist staff and highly qualified nurses. Artificial intelligence is rapidly providing more and more evidence of its diagnostic ability.

Conscientious attention to our own personal lifestyle choices in the light of available good health, diet and exercise information, as well as avoidance of health-risk habits could significantly reduce the number of visits we make to the doctor.

Yours etc,

Bill Parker, Llanfair Clydogau.

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