GP roles in emergency ambulance services in the United Kingdom: a qualitative realist study

This study aims to describe the current roles of General Practitioners (GPs) in emergency ambulance services (EAS) in the UK and to develop a theoretical framework explaining how these roles function. Through interviews with 27 professionals, the authors found that GPs primarily conduct enhanced remote patient assessments to optimize care and manage resources effectively, thereby supporting timely responses to high-acuity cases. The findings highlight the importance of GPs' clinical expertise and decision-making skills in navigating risk and improving outcomes within the emergency healthcare system.