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Are GPs-to-be right to work for private firms?

This week's exclusive GP splash reveals that 52 per cent of GPs-to-be would work for private firms.

The result came as quite a shock to us because older GPs are so vehemently opposed to private firms running polyclinics.

It's an issue clearly dividing contributors to our forums.

One writes: ‘In salaried status you have a guaranteed income, study leave, sick leave etc and other benefits an employee has. As a partner you will take what comes, what is ‘left over' from running the business and over the last two years that has meant less and less.'

Another says: ‘3 years ago I would have sworn never to work for a private firm. But when you note how few jobs are available, one would do anything. I cannot emphasise enough that if the senior partners really want to see general practice survive then they must rally behind and find solutions to help newly qualified GPs so a united front can be created. Otherwise I'm afraid it's adios family practice in the next 5  - 10 years or less.'

Another writes: 'As a GP in a partnership, I think we need to do more to encourage partnerships. There's a sea of new talent out there which will go to waste if we didn't offer partnerships.'

It's a fascinating debate and we want to hear more of your views because there are many sides to every story.

It is often easier for established GPs to get their voice heard because they have the contacts and experience to do so.

That is why GP has launched GP35 - a panel of 35 GPs aged under 35 to represent the future face of general practice.

Are you a young GP who would like their voice heard in GP newspaper?

As part of the GP35, we would occasionally ask for your view on a general practice issue.

The aim is to find out the issues that matter to our younger readers.

Ideally we'd like to take a photograph of you and publish it with your comments.

To register your interest, email neil.durham@haymarket.com.

Or are we being unnecessarily ageist?

Comments

 

Ben Ross said:

Hi Neil,

Yes, you are being ageist.

For example, there must be many older GPs out there who have views about the GMC's decision to 'strike off' all who refuse to pay the Annual Renewal Fee of £290, (this year - it was £190 last year, more than 33% rise!), in order to be able to sign certificates and prescribe, even to one's own family.

When asked about the legality of the 'regulation' about this, the answer is that their legal advice is confidential, (just like the legal advice relating to the war in Iraq, which was totally wrong, (allegedly).

So, how about an 'oldie's corner?

Best wishes,

Ben Ross, ( a registered medical practitioner since 1952, but not for much longer).

P S there may even be some GPs who are wondering who will do their work when many of their locums have been eliminated.

August 15, 2008 9:33 PM
 

Neil Durham said:

Hi Ben,

Thanks for your comments.

We should certainly consider the idea of an 'oldie's corner'.

Comments like yours about the Annual Renewal Fee are still valuable to us and we'll take a look at that issue.

Would any other of our over-35s appreciate an 'oldie's corner'?

Neil.

August 16, 2008 4:19 PM
 

Ben Ross said:

The tumultuous silence from older doctors indicates to me that they have accepted the hopelessness of trying to defy what I think is primarily EU legislation.

I will be interested to find out, eventually, how many good locums and doctors working for the DWP and on Tribunals will be forced out.

August 19, 2008 10:08 AM
 

Neil Durham said:

Ben,

Would you mind emailing me the details you have on this subject and we'll see what story we can dig up? Thanks, Neil.

August 19, 2008 9:17 PM
 

Martin Gray said:

Although I'm not a GP I hope you will not mind me going in this.  I was wondering why the EU working directive does not seem to be applicable to GPs that work for our of hours service providers in addition to at their own surgeries. If they work for a private firm will it then apply as they will be under contract? Nurse are NOT allowed to work outside of the directive by the way.

September 10, 2008 1:59 PM
 

Neil Durham said:

Martin,

Thanks for your comment. I didn't know that. We'll take a look at it and get back to you. Thanks, Neil.

September 11, 2008 11:29 AM

About Neil Durham

Neil Durham is the deputy editor of GP and Independent Nurse. He enjoys marathon training, following West Ham and all things Eurovision.

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