The GP Retention Scheme

“NHS England is continuing to invest in encouraging GPs who would otherwise leave the profession to stay in clinical general practice. The GP Retention Scheme replaces the Retained Doctors Scheme 2016 and delivers a number of improvements. The GP Retention Scheme was launched on the 1st April and replaces the Retained Doctors Scheme 2016.

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 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. The practice still receives a payment of £76.92 per session that the retained GP works, the annual expenses supplement for the retained GP remains at between £1000 and £4000 to go towards the cost of indemnity cover, professional expenses and continuing professional development (CPD) needs. However the following changes have been made:

• Further clarity on who can apply to the scheme.
• Further clarity around what additional work can be undertaken while on the scheme.
• Further clarity around extended absence and scheme extensions – for example when extensions are applicable and when payments should cease.
• The introduction of a job plan to accompany the scheme to ensure that the retained GP post delivers its aims including provision for CPD.
• Clear guidance around the management/approval of the retained GPs on to the scheme
• Introduction of a peer review process for unsuccessful applications.
• A revised application form that reflects the changes made to the scheme.

Doctors accepted on to the GP Retention Scheme can 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. Retained GPs may be on the scheme for a maximum of five years with an annual review each year to ensure that the GP remains in need of the scheme and that the practice is meeting its obligations.

You can read more about the GP Retention Scheme on the NHS England website https://www.england.nhs.uk/gp/gpfv/workforce/retained-doctors/ ”