DoH denies GPs extra help for APMS.(Department of Health on General practitioners alternative provider medical services)

As the debate on private providers continues, Nick Bostock spoke to Lord Warner.

Much of the debate about alternative provider medical services (APMS) contracts in England has focused on the need for a level playing field.

Many GPs, along with the GPC, believe large corporations bidding for contracts have a huge advantage over GP practices.

Such firms have staff dedicated to putting together winning bids for work, experience of commercial tendering processes and plenty of financial backing.

But despite pledging his commitment to a level playing field at last month's LMCs conference, health minister Lord Warner revealed this week in an …