Partnership

There are many incorrect assumptions on what partnership involves and the risks. As part of the National Partnership review, this excellent document has been produced which is well-worth a read: Myth busting questions on GP Partnership. Training for GP Partners is often done by existing Partners, you can however look at fine-tuning Partnership/ Leadership / Management skills via PCDC / EMLA and your partnership could receive support via the GPTF Resilience work.

GPTF also run a new to partnership programme which explores the key areas of partnership for new or aspiring partners.

Salaried GP

A salaried option can appeal to GPs wanting consistent earnings and can combine well with other commitments

There are clear guidelines on what should be included in a salaried GP contract. Please see the BMA website for further information.

Locum GP

Locum work can offer flexibility and the freedom to experience different practices. This can either done independently or via agencies or Chambers.

There is a huge amount of information about the practicalities and legalities of locum work. Both the National Association of Sessional GPs and the Sessional Subcommittee of the GPC are great sources of information.

GPTF has its own network of locums ran through Derbyshire Medical Chambers

Retainer GP

For GPs wishing to work a maximum of 4 sessions a week this scheme, which includes some financial reimbursement to both the retainee and the practice, is worth a look.

The GP Retention Scheme is a package of financial and educational support to help doctors, who might otherwise leave the profession, remain in clinical general practice.

The GP Retention Scheme replaces the Retained Doctors Scheme 2016. The scheme continues to be managed jointly by the local offices of Health Education England (HEE) (through the designated HEE RGP Scheme Lead) and NHS England.

About the scheme

The scheme is aimed at doctors who are seriously considering leaving or have left general practice due to personal reasons (caring responsibilities or personal illness), approaching retirement or requiring greater flexibility. The scheme supports both the retained GP and the practice employing them by offering financial support in recognition of the fact that this role is different to a ‘regular’ part-time, salaried GP post, offering greater flexibility and educational support.
Retained GPs may be on the scheme for a maximum of five years with an annual review each year to ensure that the doctor remains in need of the scheme and that the practice is meeting its obligations.

This scheme enables a doctor to remain in clinical practice for a maximum of four clinical sessions (16 hours 40 minutes) per week – 208 sessions per year, which includes protected time for continuing professional development and with educational support.