Number of GPs employed in general practices (headcount), 1969 to 2018

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Next update expected:This dataset is not expected to be updated or replaced in the future

Updates

11th December 2025
Dataset first published.

Main information

Designation
Official statistics
Data provider
NHS Digital
Data source
No specific source from data provider

Overview

Summary of dataset and variables

This table contains information on the number of General Practitioners, Registrars, and Retainers.

Data collection or calculation

The data was provided by NHS Digital, who collected data for Wales using the Exeter database. This database was a computerised payment system of General Medical Practitioners (GMPs) who are in contract with Local Health Boards. The historical data was taken from paper records.

Following the introduction of a new GP contract in 2004, the category of unrestricted principal was obsolete. All Practitioners (excluding GP registrars, GP retainers and locums) replaced those previously shown separately as unrestricted principals, restricted principals, assistants and salaried doctors.

Registrar: A practitioner employed for the purpose of training in general practice and in respect of whom a training grant is paid. A GP regstrar in this release is either in their 2nd or 3rd year so the GP registrars are not all in the same cohort

Retainer: A practitioner who provides service sessions in general practice. They undertake the sessions as an assistant employed by the practice and are allowed to work a maximum of 4 sessions each week.

The 7 Local Health Boards took over from the former 22 Local Health Boards on the 1 October 2009. Although it has been possible to show some data for years prior to this by Local Health Board it has not been possible to do so for all years.

Statistical quality

Please find this information in the related statistical publication, as per given weblink.

Related reports

Published by

Organisation
Welsh Government
Contact email
stats.healthinfo@gov.wales