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Doctors' jobs 'not at threat from ratings'

The potential introduction of a ratings website for GPs poses no direct threat to doctors' jobs, it has been asserted.

David Jenner, GP contract lead for the NHS Alliance, argues that any fears doctors may currently have are probably unjustified.

"My own view is that the profession has little to fear from it," he says.

"The public often use ratings websites like Kelkoo and TripAdvisor."

He adds that similar services already exist for assessing how well MPs serve their constituents.

Mr Jenner does suggest, however, that those with medical jobs in smaller communities could have a different experience if the ratings system is introduced.

Where there is less competition between medical providers, he explains, communities are likely to remain satisfied with their local GP as long as they believe they are receiving a good service.

Among the information suggested for inclusion on the mooted website are satisfaction levels and how well patients believe they have been treated by their doctor.