Practising GPs’ mindset towards innovation

Almost four in five (77%) GPs demonstrated a positive mindset towards the adoption of innovation within general practice. Using the Everett Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovations model as a framework, 8% of GPs identified as ‘innovators’, 35% identified as ‘early adopters’ and 34% identified as the ‘early majority’ (Figure 46). Conversely, 13% of GPs identified as ‘late majority’, and 10% as ‘laggards’.

GPs aged between 35–54 years were more likely to be innovators and early adopters, compared to GPs under 35 years or aged over 55 years. Fourteen per cent of GPs aged over 55 years were slower to adopt innovation, compared with 7% of GPs aged between 35–54 years and 4% of GPs aged under 35 years.

Further confirming the sentiment that GPs have a positive mindset towards innovation, 46% of GPs believe that innovations occurring in general practice are generally positive and improve patient outcomes (Figure 47). Only 10% of GPs did not agree with this sentiment. Forty-five per cent of GPs stated they felt enthusiastic when adopting new digital technologies within general practice, compared to 17% of GPs who did not feel enthusiastic.

There are some mixed feelings regarding GPs and their perception of the rate of change and introduction of innovative practices within general practice. Thirty-one per cent of GPs agreed they felt overwhelmed by the rate of change in the sector. A large proportion (40%) were undecided and stated they neither agreed nor disagreed that they felt overwhelmed by the rate of change.