Andrew Billson-Page's

OPINION

Andy Burnham has made a statement. The BMA doesn't

like it. So what's new?

In recent years the BMA has resisted many of the

Department of Health's initiatives - most notably extending

opening hours of GP practices. In many cases our

organisation has broadly agreed with the BMA, but when it

comes to facilitating greater patient choice the BMA is out

of step with public opinion.

It is clear that the ability to choose GPs is something that would be welcomed by patients. The world is changing, and as people work further away from their homes they need the option of either extended opening hours or to see a GP near their place of work. This proposed change will also empower patients to take greater control of their own health.

The BMA has to be less confrontational and more realistic. The medical profession has to adapt to current realities. It is part of any solution and therefore has to act responsibly to ensure that it co-operates with progress rather than blocks it.

Dr Laurence Buckman says that this is too complicated to be left to politicians. He is right of course. But it's also too much an issue of presonal health and individual freedom to be left to a medical union with a vested interest in the status quo. The doctor's union has to consider the needs of its patients rather than only those of its members.

The BMA must act in the interests of the public. Yes, we realise that there are operational issues to be considered. Yes, we understand that the government approach can be dictatorial and unhelpful. But progressive change is necessary. The BMA must make sure that patient choice becomes a reality.