Family doctors in England agree new pay deal

The English government has struck a deal with doctors' leaders to reform the GP contract which MPs complained had led to "eye-watering" pay rises. The new deal with the British Medical Association will see the minimum income practice guarantee phased out by April 2011. MIPG was introduced years ago, alongside bonus payments for GPs helping people with conditions like diabetes or asthma better look after themselves. It soon emerged most practices came close to achieving the maximum bonus points, and the contract was also criticized for allowing GPs to stop offering out-of-hours care. Under the new deal, the amount GPs earn will be directly proportionate to the number of patients on their list and the health needs of their local populations, the Department of Health said.