The NHS Executive has issued guidance to resolve a row with GPs over payment for telephone advice. Health authorities were told not to pay for telephone consultations in February, prompting anger among GPs in areas with large numbers of temporary residents. The new guidance says fees should be paid and GPs compensated if they lost more than £50 per quarter. Further guidance on compensation will be issued.

Payment of Immediately Necessary, Emergency and Temporary Resident Fees for the Provision of Telephone Advice. www.open.gov.uk/doh/coinh.htm