NHS England is introducing a more structured approach to accessing specialist care through a single point of access (SPoA).
Click below:
Link to SPoA InfoGraphic
Link to SPoA InfoGraphic
In simple terms, instead of referrals going to multiple places, they are directed through one central route. This allows specialists to review requests earlier and provide advice, guidance, or direct patients to the most appropriate care pathway first time.
For practices, this should mean:
- More consistent referral processes
- Quicker access to specialist input
- Fewer unnecessary outpatient appointments
Importantly, this model is not being designed in isolation. Trusts and ICBs are expected to work closely with GPs and local leaders to shape how SPoA works in practice — and to keep refining it over time.
The key takeaway: this is about getting patients to the right care, in the right place, sooner — with general practice playing a central role in shaping how it works locally.