The 2026-27 general practice contract requires that requests identified as clinically urgent, as determined by the GP practice, must be dealt with on the same day.

This is intended to support timely access to care for patients where delay may result in harm or deterioration.

NHS England has published:

• guidance to support practices in recording same-day appointments for all clinically urgent patients
• a national category mapping quick guide
• a frequently asked questions guide (available on FutureNHS, login required)
• a clinically urgent same-day tech support practice webinar recording (available on FutureNHS, login required).