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Patient FAQs
FAQs
What is the difference between Primary Care Networks, Federations and Neighbourhoods?
Primary Care Networks (PCNs) are formal NHS structures that group together neighbouring GP practices to deliver coordinated services and access shared funding and staff roles.
Federations are collaborations of GP practices at a larger scale (often across a whole borough), set up more flexibly to share back-office functions, bid for contracts, or deliver extended services.
Neighbourhoods are broader, place-based groupings within an Integrated Care System (ICS) that bring together PCNs, community services, social care, and voluntary sector partners to coordinate care for local populations.
Does being part of a PCN change my GP surgery?
No. You are still registered with your usual GP surgery. The PCN works alongside your GP, not instead of them.
Why was my appointment arranged through the PCN?
Some services are provided across several GP practices to make it easier for patients to get the right care. This can help reduce waiting times and give access to different specialists.
Why is my appointment at a different location?
PCN appointments sometimes take place at another PCN GP practice. This allows services to be shared across practices and helps appointments to run smoothly.
Who might I see at a PCN appointment?
Depending on your needs, you might see:
- A GP
- A paramedic
- A clinical pharmacist
- A physician associate
- A first-contact physiotherapist
- A social prescribing worker
All of these professionals work as part of your primary care team.
Is a PCN appointment still part of my GP care?
Yes. PCN appointments are part of NHS primary care. Information from your appointment is shared with your GP so your care stays joined up.
Do I have to pay for PCN appointments?
No. PCN appointments are free, just like GP appointments.
Can I choose not to attend a PCN appointment?
Yes. If you have concerns or are unsure, you can contact your GP surgery to talk through your options and decide what is best for you.
What should I do if I am confused about my appointment?
If you are unsure about:
- Where your appointment is
- Who you are seeing
- Why the appointment was arranged
Get in touch with the service that contacted you or your GP surgery. They will be happy to explain.
Will my GP still know what’s going on with my care?
Yes. Your GP remains responsible for your overall care, and relevant information from PCN appointments is shared with them.
Which practices are in Central Camden PCN?
Central Camden PCN is made up of the following GP practices:
- Ampthill & Regents Park Practice
- Bloomsbury Surgery
- Brunswick Medical Centre
- Camden Health Improvement Practice
- Kings Cross Surgery
- Ridgmount Practice
- Somers Town Medical Centre
- Swiss Cottage Surgery
Are PCNs anything to do with privatisation?
No. PCNs are part of the NHS. They bring together local GP practices to work more closely and improve care for patients. Services provided through PCNs remain free at the point of use.
How long have PCNs existed?
Primary Care Networks (PCNs) were introduced across England in 2019. They were set up to help GP practices work together more closely and provide a wider range of services to patients.