GPs have always been self-employed, ever since NHS was introduced in 1947, and I can remember hearing of programmes to check and, where necessary, reduce medication for older people well over 40 years ago because of the number of people admitted to hospital or care with dementia who were found to be mentally well and able to return home once their medication had been checked and either changed or reduced.
I think we all have a responsibility, when we are older and able, to keep an eye on our own medication. Ten years ago I refused drugs for both high blood pressure and statins when both were raised slightly at a time of high stress. Both returned to normal levels within weeks and have remained below medication level ever since. I would not turn down medication I really needed.