Working as a GP in the UK

tteit
August 12, 2024

Working as a GP in the UK

Being a General Practitioner (GP) in the UK is rewarding and challenging. For the newly qualified GP and the budding GPST3, understanding the multifaceted roles of a GP, the steps to qualification, and the variety of career options available is crucial. This guide aims to provide an introduction, clarity and inspiration on this topic.

Understanding the Role of a GP in the UK

GPs are an integral part of the NHS infrastructure and its goal of providing excellent health care for our population. Primary Care services which are led by GPs are handling most patient interactions and spearheading community-based healthcare. As the healthcare system shifts focus from hospitals to community settings, GPs are even more essential in managing and delivering this care.

The GP position offers significant flexibility, allowing you to tailor your career to your interests and priorities. Whether you want to develop a special interest or work in various regions, from the tranquil Scottish Highlands to vibrant cities like London, there is a place for you.

Steps to Becoming a GP

Obtain a License to Practice: Register with the General Medical Council (GMC), which is a prerequisite for practising medicine in the UK.
Complete GP Training Programme: This includes time in approved training practices and hospital posts. You will also need to pass several assessments and the MRCGP examinations, namely the AKT and SCA.
National Medical Performers List (NPML) Inclusion: Complete the induction process and get included on the NPML to begin practising as a GP.

What kind of GP do you want to be?

Salaried GP

For those seeking stability and a regular income, a salaried GP position is an excellent choice. This role offers the benefits of employment without the responsibilities of running a business.

Advantages:

Regular salary
Benefits like annual leave, sick pay, and pension contributions
Better work-life balance, especially for those with family responsibilities

Challenges:

Less say in business decisions
Fixed duties and hours
Reduced autonomy compared to other roles

GP Partnerships

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and want a say in how a practice is run, consider becoming a GP partner. This role involves co-owning and managing a practice with other partners, giving you significant control over business decisions and practice operations. If considering a partnership carefully evaluate the practice and partnership agreement. Look into the future sustainability and financial health of the practice you are considering.

Advantages:

Influence over practice management
Ability to tailor services to meet community needs
Greater autonomy in your daily schedule

Challenges:

Significant responsibility
Financial and business risks

Locum GP

If you enjoy variety and flexibility, the role of a locum GP could be ideal. This position allows you to work in different practices, from rural clinics to urban medical centres, allowing you to experience diverse working environments before committing to a permanent position.

Advantages:

Exposure to various work environments
Flexible working hours
Opportunities to pursue other medical interests

Challenges:

Unpredictable work availability
Limited sick leave and holiday pay
Potential difficulties in obtaining mortgages

Portfolio Career

A portfolio career allows you to combine multiple roles, offering variety and personal satisfaction. As a GP, you can engage in clinical work such as leading specialist clinics or working in hospital settings. Additionally, you can explore non-clinical roles like education, media, health policy, and more.

GPs with Extended Roles (GPwERs)

For those looking to specialize further, becoming a GP with an Extended Role (GPwER) can be highly fulfilling. This pathway allows you to focus on specific medical areas, enhancing your expertise and providing specialized care to your community.

GPwERs RCGP framework development:

Population health and health inequalities
Sustainable health
Child and young persons’ mental health
Diabetes, metabolic medicine and prevention of diabetes
Palliative care
Emergency medicine
Lifestyle medicine
Research in primary care.

Final Thoughts

As you progress through your training, remember that the journey to becoming a GP in the UK is filled with opportunities. Whether you choose to be a locum, a salaried GP, a partner, or a GPwER, each path offers unique experiences and rewards. Embrace the diversity, stay curious, network and plan ahead of your expected CCT date.