387 NHS Primary Care Bulletin - 30 April 2026

Introduction

This article summarises the NHS England Primary Care Bulletin for 30 April 2026, the weekly email update for teams in general practice, dentistry, community pharmacy, and optometry.

Key updates in this issue highlight significant advancements in maternal health through RSV vaccination, important changes impacting dental practice, and crucial notices regarding medication discontinuation. These developments aim to improve patient outcomes and access to care across various primary care sectors.

Maternal RSV vaccination cuts infant hospitalisation risk by over 80 per cent

Recent findings from a UKHSA study have revealed that the maternal respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination is highly effective, reducing the risk of hospitalisation in newborns by more than 80 per cent when administered at least two weeks before delivery. Maternal vaccine uptake has seen a steady increase in England, now reaching 64.1 per cent among women who gave birth in November 2025. Resources to communicate the advantages of the maternal vaccination programme are available on the Campaign Resource Centre.

Find a dentist search page update: status tags

Changes implemented under the NHS dentistry quality and payment contractual reforms now require all high street dental practices to offer a minimum level of urgent dental care. Consequently, the find-a-dentist search page has added new status tags, allowing patients to quickly locate practices that provide urgent care.

Discontinuation of Levemir products

The Department of Health and Social Care has released an updated Medicines Supply Notification regarding the discontinuation of Levemir products, which is expected to run out by December 2026. Clinicians are advised to cease initiating new patients on Levemir, audit existing patients, and transition them to alternative treatments as per national clinical guidance from ABCD/PCDO.

Driving health equity with the Digital exclusion risk atlas

The Digital Exclusion Risk Atlas (DERA) has been launched to assist primary care teams in identifying areas where digital access may hinder patient care. This tool consolidates various factors contributing to digital exclusion, ultimately supporting efforts to provide more inclusive care pathways.

Robotic process automation (RPA) in primary care

An increasing number of primary care organisations are utilising robotic process automation (RPA) to enhance service delivery. It is essential to use application programming interfaces (APIs) for system integration and secure data exchange. For guidance on secure authentication when implementing RPA, refer to the published guidance.

NHSE-funded autism peer support service available

The Autism Central programme offers resources, peer support, and educational opportunities for families and support networks of autistic individuals. Participants can join various learning events and access further information through the Autism Central website.

Take part in GP research to improve NHS App appointment booking

Researchers are seeking participation from GP practices to improve appointment booking functionality within the NHS App. The study will evaluate real GP workflows concerning appointment requests. Interested practices can register via this short survey.

Cyber incident workshop – focusing on patient care and service continuity

A practical cybersecurity workshop is scheduled for 4 June 2026, aimed at helping primary care teams prepare for digital disruptions. The session will cover patient safety, clinical decision-making, and operational continuity. To register, please email england.jointcyberunit@nhs.net with your details.

Applications open for the next cohort of Applied Population Health Programme

Health and care professionals are invited to apply for the Applied Population Health Programme. This year-long part-time course includes a postgraduate qualification provided by the University of Salford. For more details, including eligibility criteria, visit the programme page. Applications close on 1 June 2026.

Experience of care week 2026: 27 April–1 May

During Experience of Care Week, NHS England is conducting a series of webinars focused on improving care experiences. Participants can gain insights from lived experiences and learn about key themes influencing health services. Further information can be accessed through the webinar link.

Upcoming webinars and events

• 6 May, 10:30 – 12:00: AI Ambassador Network meeting

• 21 May, 11:00 – 12:00: Understanding and using the Sickle cell clinical pathway initiative

• 21 May, 13:00 – 15:00: Measles Epidemiology and Outbreak Response

• 10-11 June: NHS ConfedExpo

Missed a recent national webinar? View slides and recordings below:

• General Practice webinars

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.

View the original email here.