Perceived barriers and enablers to innovation in general practice

Sixty-four per cent of GPs identified a lack of time as a barrier to innovation within their practice setting, followed by a lack of government incentives and funding (61%) and government regulations and compliance (58%) (Figure 50). Only 1% of GPs believed there were no barriers to innovation within their practice setting. Two in five GPs felt that privacy and consent issues were a barrier (Figure 50). This is also echoed by patients, of which 64% report to be worried about potential cybersecurity breaches, and a further 27% report to be very concerned.⁶

This was closely followed by technology improvements (59%), effective integration of new technologies (51%) and availability of education and professional development specific to innovation (43%). Patient-related factors were also listed as enablers, specifically good patient digital and health literacy (37%) and positive patient perception (34%).

This sentiment is upheld by data that demonstrates a positive correlation between patient uptake of technology and health outcomes. Almost seven in 10 patients (67%) say that technologies used by their practice enhances their experience, and 83% of patients are satisfied with the use of technology and digital tools.⁶ A further 70% say they are tracking their health and fitness via apps and devices, and many are seeking digital self-service options for provider interactions.⁶