382 - NHS Primary Care Bulletin - 26 March 2026

This article summarises the NHS England Primary Care Bulletin for 26 March 2026, the weekly email update for teams in general practice, dentistry, community pharmacy, and optometry.

Key themes this week include updates on reimbursement schemes, reforms in dental contracts, the introduction of menopause care toolkits, and changes to the COVID-19 vaccination service sign-up. Additionally, there are new developments in the electronic prescription service and collaborative arrangements for primary care networks.

General practice updates

GP practice level reimbursement scheme

Changes to the GP contract for the 2026/27 period include a new practice level GP reimbursement scheme. While details are still being developed and will not be included in the Statement of Financial Entitlement (SFE) from 1 April 2026, practices can continue to claim funding throughout the financial year. There will be provisions for transitioning from existing Capacity and Access Funding to the new scheme.

Working with general practice on elective pathways

NHS England has emphasised the importance of engaging general practice in the development of elective pathways and outpatient reforms. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that patient needs are met and local care pathways are developed in a safe and workable manner.

Outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent

NHS teams have responded diligently to a meningitis B outbreak linked to the University of Kent. A letter from the UK Health Security Agency and NHS England has circulated, detailing actions to support those affected. Eligible contacts not already receiving antibiotic prophylaxis should be prescribed according to national guidance. A further letter has been issued for specific patient groups needing MenB vaccinations at general practice settings. The necessary amendments to the SFE will be made retrospectively.

NHS diabetic eye screening programme transformation

A digital transformation of the NHS Diabetic Eye Screening (DES) programme is underway. The new 'Cascade' process will be piloted in the 2026/27 financial year, aiming to replace the current GP2DRS system for identifying diabetic cohorts. Practices need not take any action at this stage, as the pilot will proceed without affecting current data processing. For more information, contact england.digitalscreening@nhs.net.

Changes to the COVID-19 vaccination service sign-up

Practices wishing to sign up for the 2026/27 COVID-19 vaccination service must accept the offer on the CQRS platform and complete a new data collection form. This form will include sections specific to service registration. It is important to note that existing sign-ups need not take further action.

PCN collaborative arrangements for vaccinations

Practices within Primary Care Networks can collaborate to vaccinate registered patients from different practices, provided all involved are signed up on CQRS from 1 April 2026. Payment processes will be adjusted accordingly to streamline operations across practices.

NHS cervical screening programme updates

All communications related to the NHS cervical screening programme are now available digitally. Patients will receive messages via the NHS App regarding their screening results. Information for encouraging app adoption is accessible through Futures. For further queries, contact england.digitalscreening@nhs.net.

Menopause optimal pathway toolkit

The Menopause Optimal Pathway Toolkit has been launched to provide comprehensive and consistent care for menopause management across England. This toolkit highlights evidence-based pathways for service providers, focusing on reducing health inequalities and improving access to treatments, including HRT. A webinar is scheduled for 7 May for further discussion.

Spring 2026 COVID-19 vaccination programme

A new smaller pack size for the Spikevax vaccine will be available for ordering from 31 March, with deliveries starting on 7 April. Further details can be found in the updated provider guide.

Urgent community care framework

The Clinical Decision-Making Framework for urgent community care aims to improve care delivery for patients who attend emergency departments but can receive appropriate treatment in community settings. It outlines essential actions for integrated care across primary and community teams.

Electronic prescription service extension

The electronic prescription service will extend to support vulnerable populations, enabling first repeat EPS prescriptions for detainees in England starting April 2026. This initiative is aimed at improving medication continuity and reducing pressure on GPs. For more details, use the EPS Tracker.

NHS dental contract reforms

NHS England has published guidance on the NHS dental contract quality and payment reforms which will come into effect from 1 April in the 2026/27 financial year. This guidance is aimed at dental contractors and commissioners, detailing eligibility criteria, service requirements, and payment arrangements to better align care with the diverse needs of the population.

Changes to seasonal vaccination service registration

From 1 April, contractors must transition to using the NHSBSA’s Manage Your Service (MYS) portal for seasonal vaccination registrations. Those who register by 31 March will have their services automatically transferred.

Evaluation of childhood flu vaccination service

A service evaluation is being conducted regarding the childhood flu vaccination initiative. Community pharmacies are encouraged to participate by completing a short online questionnaire by 17 April 2026.

Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework updates

As the consultation continues regarding the Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework (CPCF) for 2026/27, current fees and incentives will remain effective from 1 April. The Community Pharmacy Lateral Flow Device Service has been extended until 31 March 2027.

Join the NHS Futures educators workspace

The NHS Futures Educators Workspace supports healthcare educators by fostering connections and sharing resources. Contributors can engage in discussions to enhance teaching and learning experiences in various clinical settings. Join the workspace.

Applications open for the Digital Health Leadership Programme

Applications are currently accepted for Cohort 9 of the Digital Health Leadership Programme until 30 April. This programme focuses on developing leaders in digital health across the NHS. More information is available on the website.

• 14 April 12-1.30pm: Growing occupational health and wellbeing together

• 14 April 1-2pm: Structured medication reviews in problematic polypharmacy: insomnia focus

• 14 April 2-3.30pm: NHS England webinars on cybersecurity Cyber Baseline Part B

• 15 April 11am-12.30pm: Growing Occupational Health and Wellbeing – National Learning Session | NHS England Events

• 26 April 2-3pm: BMJ Best Practice and state-of-the-art care for Sepsis in Adults webinar

• 10-11 June 2026: NHSConfedExpo

Content in this article is drawn from the NHS England Primary Care Bulletin. Patient.info edits and formats the updates to provide a clear, accessible archive for professionals.

For the original email, click here: No images?