Shortage of GPs in the NHS: Response to Andrew Johnson
I thank Andrew Johnson for his response. Space limitations did not allow for a full discussion of all the factors leading to a shortage of GPs in the NHS in my article. Clearly, the greater propensity for newly-qualified GPs to have ‘portfolio careers’ in which their clinical work is only one part of their working week is important to take into account in workforce planning. Another issue that needs to be addressed is the difficulty that older GPs who have retired from their permanent posts face in undertaking locum work. In the past, such doctors played a valuable role in the NHS, for example, by undertaking locum work during holiday periods. Unfortunately, the current requirements for appraisal and revalidation, and high indemnity costs, have made it very impractical for older doctors to continue working as locums.
Competing interests:
I am a GP principal at a general practice in Clapham, London.
19 July 2017
Azeem Majeed
Professor of Primary Care
Imperial College London
Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London W6 8RP
Rapid Response:
Shortage of GPs in the NHS: Response to Andrew Johnson
I thank Andrew Johnson for his response. Space limitations did not allow for a full discussion of all the factors leading to a shortage of GPs in the NHS in my article. Clearly, the greater propensity for newly-qualified GPs to have ‘portfolio careers’ in which their clinical work is only one part of their working week is important to take into account in workforce planning. Another issue that needs to be addressed is the difficulty that older GPs who have retired from their permanent posts face in undertaking locum work. In the past, such doctors played a valuable role in the NHS, for example, by undertaking locum work during holiday periods. Unfortunately, the current requirements for appraisal and revalidation, and high indemnity costs, have made it very impractical for older doctors to continue working as locums.
Competing interests: I am a GP principal at a general practice in Clapham, London.