In 2026, ARRS is no longer about accessing funding. It is about delivering against PCN contractual expectations.
The Network DES continues to place accountability on PCNs for structured medication reviews, enhanced access, preventative care and reducing GP pressure. ARRS roles sit at the centre of that delivery.
The challenge we see is not recruitment alone. It is workforce structure.
Where PCNs are exposed
Common operational issues include:
• Clinical Pharmacists recruited without protected supervision time
• First Contact Physiotherapists underutilised or misrouted
• Mental Health Practitioners without defined referral pathways
• Inconsistent data reporting across practices
ARRS funding remains tied to national specifications and annual review. Headcount alone does not evidence impact. PCNs must demonstrate outcomes.
Skill mix over volume
High performing networks are asking practical questions:
• Are structured medication reviews reducing GP appointments
• Are MSK cases being diverted correctly at first contact
• Is enhanced access staffed appropriately
This is operational design, not simply hiring.
Recruitment reality in 2026
Experienced Primary Care Clinical Pharmacists and FCPs remain competitive hires.
Practices that offer:
• Clear job plans
• Defined supervision
• Structured induction
• Long term integration into the MDT
are retaining ARRS staff more successfully.
Reactive hiring to secure funding often leads to churn.
The shift
ARRS is part of a long term Primary Care workforce model. It must align with GP capacity, patient demand and DES accountability.
At Vela Medical Group, we support PCNs and GP practices with recruitment that reflects operational delivery, not just funding timelines.
If your network is reviewing its 2026 workforce structure, it may be time to look beyond headcount.