Recent statistics from a survey by GP Pulse magazine shows a serious shortage of UK GP’s leading to an increased number of practices having to close their doors. This worst vacancy rate in 5 years is thought to be linked to more GP’s opting for early retirement due to the new NHS pension reforms, declining income packages as well as increased levels of work stress from government pressure to open longer hours.
Are you a GP feeling these effects?
Partner positions vacant
The survey showed a 3% increase in the number of GP vacancies, up from 6% last year.
Almost 20% of practices reported that it can take up to 12 months to fill a partner position within their practice with a further 17% saying it takes at least six months. The average duration to fill a partnership vacancy within a surgery was between 5 and 6 months.
Changes to the NHS Pension
The new NHS pension has forced GP’s and medical professionals alike to consider their retirement options, with many realising their financial capabilities are capped now under new regime. Stagnant or decreasing income levels also leave a lack of incentive for established GP’s to continue working, so many feel they may as well hang up their stethoscopes and take early retirement.
GP’s with a doctors pension will be in a better position to drawdown their pension pot since Flexible Pensions were introduced from April 2015.
Increased work demands
In addition, the promises made by both Tories and Labour governments to increase GP opening hours as well as furthering demands on 48 hour appointment guarantees means added work related stress for GP’s encouraging them out of the profession.