Talking General Practice

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273 episodes · showing the newest 200

List cleaning, neighbourhoods and LESs: planning your practice finances for 2027

Nov 13, 2026 41 min

This week Emma speaks to GP partner Dr Tommy Perkins and specialist medical accountant Andy Pow from Medics Money about the financial issues practices and PCNs are facing and what they need to do to prepare for 2027. Tommy and Andy explain the financial fallout from NHS England’s list cleansing drive and offer their views on the government’s announcement this week to funnel some of this money back to PCNs via a time-limited scheme aimed at preventing avoidable hospital admissions this winter. They also discuss what the push towards neighbourhoods could mean for practice and PCN finances, the impact of rising costs and why having a firm grip on your practice numbers, scenario modelling, and business skills are all now critical for your practice’s long-term survival. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Medics MoneyGP redundancy fears as £40m list cleaning cash handed to PCNsWhat PCNs need to do to receive £40m winter fundingGP contract uplift cut by 25% as list cleaning wipes 1m patients from practicesLMCs challenge NHS over legality of list cleaning process Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus episode: What GPs should know about the gut microbiome and probiotics

Nov 10, 2026 27 min

In this special bonus episode, sponsored by Symprove, GPonline editor Emma Bower speaks to Professor Simon Gaisford, Professor of Pharmaceutics at University College London, about the science behind the gut microbiome and the clinical evidence for probiotics. Simon explains what dysbiosis is and how gut flora imbalances may be linked to broader health conditions, including neurological diseases like Parkinson’s. He explains the differences between solid and liquid probiotic formulations and what the current scientific evidence actually tells us. Simon also discusses practical advice for primary care, including how GPs can counsel patients who ask about probiotics, how to best support gut health when prescribing antibiotics, and what emerging research reveals about managing gut health in specific patient populations. This episode was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Symprove Professionals | Published Research The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speaker and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or positions of Symprove. About Symprove This episode of Talking General Practice has been supported by Symprove. Based on an external survey, Symprove was the number one probiotic recommended by gastroenterologists, dietitians and GPs. The unique water-based solution delivers live bacteria to the colon and is proven in randomised controlled trials by leading institutions. 92% of people report a benefit within 12 weeks in real-world. Healthcare professionals can trial Symprove for free. Visit professionals.symprove.com and sign up for a virtual meeting to hear more about the research behind Symprove and get your free 12-week pack. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GPs face 2.4% pay rise, Yvette Cooper’s neighbourhood vision, LMC conference preview

Nov 6, 2026 36 min

Emma and Nick discuss the government’s evidence to the Doctors and Dentists Review Body and what it had to say about the pay rise GPs should receive next year - and look at how the budget might affect general practice. They talk about health and social care secretary Yvette Cooper’s first appearance in front of the health and social care committee since she took on the role - and what she had to say about the NHS workforce plan, neighbourhoods and the abolition of NHS England. And discuss a report from the National Audit Office about the impact recent cuts to ICBs have had. They also look ahead to the England LMCs’ conference later this month and the issues that GP leaders will be debating and what this tells us about the profession’s big concerns at the moment. Our good news story this week is about the GP winners of the RCGP Research Paper of the Year awards and GPs and their teams who have been recognised for improving end of life care in the RCGP/Marie Curie Daffodil Standards Awards. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Government plans 2.4% pay rise for GPs in 2027/28Budget minimum wage rise and tax changes threaten extra pressure on GPsGPs in talks over taking control of hospital outpatient budgetWatchdog flags deep concern over ICB reformsRCGP Research Paper of the Year winners announcedGeneral practice teams recognised for improving end-of-life care Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RCGP conference – Continuity of care, AI in general practice, value of a GP

Oct 30, 2026 45 min

GPonline is the media partner for the RCGP annual conference and this is a special episode from a very packed event in Glasgow this week. Emma looks at what RCGP president Professor Victoria Tzortziou Brown said in her first speech to the conference as president. She speaks to vice presidents Dr Margaret Ikpoh and Dr Thomas Patel-Campbell about whether there is a bright future for general practice, how to protect GPs from burnout and art in medicine. Emma also talks to vice presidents Dr Munro Stewart and Dr Jamie Hynes about how AI is likely to change general practice and the RCGP’s role in supporting safe implementation of new technology. And she speaks to the outgoing RCGP Scotland chair Dr Chris Provan about his time in the post and some of the college’s work north of the border, including the college’s Value of a GP report. It was produced by Czarina Deen You can find all of GPonline’s coverage from this week’s conference at https://www.gponline.com/rcgp Supported by MDDUS This episode of Talking General Practice is supported by MDDUS. For more than 120 years, MDDUS has supported doctors with medico-legal expertise, professional indemnity and dedicated member support. From complaints and claims to ethical and professional challenges, their experts help doctors practise with confidence. Visit mddus.com to learn more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RCGP president Professor Victoria Tzortziou Brown on the state of general practice, continuity and neighbourhoods

Oct 28, 2026 37 min

Emma speaks to Professor Victoria Tzortziou Brown, president of the Royal College of GPs, ahead of the college’s annual conference in Glasgow this week. GPonline is the media partner for the RCGP annual conference and this is the first of two episodes that we’ll be producing from the event this week. In this episode, Victoria discusses the college’s first State of General Practice report, which was published this week, and the stark gap between government ambitions to shift care into the community and the reality of frontline capacity, funding, and GP retention. She explains why access targets must not come at the expense of continuity of care, why GP leadership remains vital on ICB boards, and discusses the safeguards needed around neighbourhood working, the single patient record, and AI. Victoria also talks about the college’s plans to strengthen research within general practice, what she hopes to convey to delegates in her first conference speech as president, and what gives her optimism for the future of the profession. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Read all of GPonline’s coverage from the RCGP annual conference this week at https://www.gpponline.com/rcgp Supported by MDDUS This episode of Talking General Practice is supported by MDDUS. For more than 120 years, MDDUS has supported doctors with medico-legal expertise, professional indemnity and dedicated member support. From complaints and claims to ethical and professional challenges, their experts help doctors practise with confidence. Visit mddus.com to learn more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unlocking the benefits of neighbourhoods - in conversation with the NAPC

Oct 23, 2026 39 min

This week Emma speaks to Professor Andy Brooks and Dr Liam Loftus from the National Association of Primary Care, about the drive towards neighbourhood health and what it means for general practice. Andy is the NAPC’s clinical chair and Liam is head of policy at the organisation. Andy and Liam share insights from NAPC’s work supporting sites in the National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme, and explain why local relationships, trust, and leadership matter far more than new neighbourhood contracts. They also discuss concerns around proposed multi-neighbourhood providers, why general practice must form the foundation of neighbourhood working, and how to protect continuity of care and provide practical advice on what practices can do right now to get started. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and was produced by Czarina Deen. You can watch a video with more practical advice from this interview on how practices and PCNs can make the most of neighbourhoods on our GP Business website here - you will need to register for the site to watch the video, or use your GPonline login if you have one. Useful links NAPC website Viewpoint: Neighbourhood contracts bring risk - but also opportunity for GPs Neighbourhood contracts risk imposing form over function, warns NAPC Hospital deficits block funding shift to neighbourhoods, NHS official admits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What GPs want from next year’s contract, how NHS delays affect GPs, the ‘left shift’ of funding

Oct 16, 2026 37 min

This week Emma and Nick look at a whole host of GP contract issues, including changes to the GP reimbursement scheme, an update on list cleaning, NHS England threatening possible contractual action over same-day access and what GPs want from next year’s contract. They also discuss how specialist waiting lists and problems elsewhere in the system are piling pressure on general practice, following a recent survey of the public by the RCGP. And they talk about why the so-called ‘left shift’ of resources from hospitals to secondary care is so difficult and how the NHS is hoping neighbourhoods will enable the change this time around. Our good news story this week is about a practice that closed for four years due to short-staffing which is set to reopen. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful resources Full details of practice-level GP reimbursement scheme Multimillion-pound list cleaning cuts 'will be reinvested in core general practice' What can GPs expect from the 2027/28 contract? GPs slam impact on capacity and safety after a year of unlimited online demand How NHS delays are piling extra work on GPs Hospital deficits block funding shift to neighbourhoods, NHS official admits Practice to reopen and hire more GPs after £336,000 boost Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GP and NICE CMO Dr Adrian Hayter on improving guidance for GPs, new tech and prescribing

Oct 9, 2026 37 min

This week Emma speaks to Dr Adrian Hayter, a GP partner in Windsor and Chief Medical Officer at NICE. Adrian discusses why he made the move to NICE and what having a practicing GP in senior leadership at the organisation means for primary care as the NHS shifts focus towards community-based care and neighbourhood health teams. He explains how NICE is working to accelerate guidance approvals, how guidelines can be made more accessible for frontline clinicians managing patients with complex multi-morbidities, and the role of the upcoming Single National Formulary - and what it will mean for GPs, pharmacists and primary care teams. Adrian also explains how NICE is adapting its evaluation frameworks for emerging health technologies, including AI tools and medical-grade wearables. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links MHRA and NICE aligned pathway: how it's working in practice - article on NICE’s website Information about NICE’s lifecycle approach to guidance development The Pharmacists’ Summit - from MIMS Healthcare Network Two evenings of online learning on 30 November and 1 December for pharmacists working in primary care. For more information and to register for your free place visit: https://www.mimshealthcarenetwork.co.uk/mims-learning-live-digital-the-pharmacists-summit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ARRS goes back to basics, GP contract priorities this year, Labour conference

Oct 2, 2026 37 min

The GPonline team discusses the latest news affecting general practice. This week they look at the additional roles reimbursement scheme after an analysis of NHS data by Nick suggested that PCNs are starting to switch funding towards paying for more GPs and nurses as opposed to other healthcare professionals. Nick and Emma discuss the BMA England GP committee’s decision to postpone any escalation to collective action in a bid to reset its relationship with the government ahead of this year’s contract negotiations.They look at what that means and the key issues the BMA will be pushing for in this year’s contract talks. Meanwhile, this week Kimberley went to Liverpool to the Labour Party conference - she explains what the mood was like and what GPs attending the conference thought about it. And the team looks at what prime minister Andy Burnham and health and social care secretary Yvette Cooper had to say. And our good news story this week is about an innovative GP-led falls prevention initiative. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower, deputy editor Nick Bostock and senior reporter Kimberley Hackett. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Sign up for GPonline updates with our 60-second GP email here Useful links ARRS funding shift as PCNs prioritise doctors and nurses GPs in England postpone further action in 'reset' with government GPs urged to 'seize' neighbourhood model as Cooper hails improved access If hospital to community shift doesn't work - stop it, says RCGP Innovative GP-led falls scheme 'strong example' of neighbourhood benefits The Pharmacists’ Summit - from MIMS Healthcare Network Two evenings of online learning on 30 November and 1 December for pharmacists working in primary care. For more information and to register for your free place visit: https://www.mimshealthcarenetwork.co.uk/mims-learning-live-digital-the-pharmacists-summit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bonus episode: Urological cancer - key advice for GPs on referral, diagnosis and treatment

Sep 29, 2026 29 min

In this bonus episode of Talking General Practice Dr Netty Kinsella, uro-oncology nurse consultant and clinical lead for urology cancer diagnostics and active surveillance at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, speaks to GPonline editor Emma Bower about urological cancer. Netty explains what makes the Royal Marsden's urology diagnostic service unique, and provides essential guidance for GPs on when to refer patients with suspected urological cancer. She talks about the latest on prostate cancer screening, including the National Screening Committee’s recent recommendation for a targeted programme, and how GPs should approach risk-adapted PSA testing. Netty also shares key insights into the role of MRIs, advanced biopsy technologies, and provides advice on managing haematuria and urgent testicular presentations in primary care. This episode was produced by Czarina Deen. This episode of the podcast has been sponsored by The Royal Marsden Private Care. About The Royal Marsden Private Care The Royal Marsden opened in 1851 as the world's first hospital dedicated to cancer diagnosis, treatment, research, and education. Today, it operates as a specialist cancer centre and, working closely with its principal academic partner, the Institute of Cancer Research, is ranked among the top four institutions globally for the impact of its research. As a centre of excellence, The Royal Marsden pioneers the latest cancer treatments and technologies while leading the way in innovative cancer diagnosis, research, and education. As a specialist cancer centre, The Royal Marsden has the clinical expertise, facilities and technology to provide the very highest levels of private cancer care. Every cancer is different, and their multidisciplinary teams, consisting of over 2,500 world-leading cancer experts, provide patients with personalised and bespoke treatment plans. NHS and Private Care services are provided in parallel at The Royal Marsden, ensuring clinical need and urgency is prior...

Rethinking grief in primary care - how to deliver effective bereavement care

Sep 25, 2026 35 min

This week Emma talks to Dr Lynsey Bennett, a GP in Oxford, about the educational resource she has co-developed to help primary care teams better understand grief and deliver effective bereavement care. Lindsay explains the simple, three-part consultation framework designed to help clinicians navigate conversations about loss within standard short appointments. She explains why outdated linear models of grief can be unhelpful, how to support patients without trying to 'fix' their pain, and simple changes practices can make to better support bereaved patients. She also covers how to spot signs of complex grief that require specialist psychological input, how practices can protect staff wellbeing, and why bereavement care needs higher priority across NHS training and policy. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links A primary care approach to bereavement | British Journal of General PracticeA compassionate bereavement response - Poster for clinical and waiting roomsNational Grief Awareness Week - Resources for running an awareness campaignExplaining grief - This is a resource compiled by GPs in London, and includes a poster summary of the consultation modelGrief and Bereavement in Primary Care - Good Grief - A short course for anyone who works in primary care. Broken down into seven one-hour webinars and available on demand for six months from the time you subscribe. Could be listened to as a podcast if downloaded.Good Grief – an online community which hosts events and courses that bring people together to gain insight and knowledge, hear stories they can relate to, and find support and healing as part of the Good Grief community.The Bristol Centre for Grief Research and Engagement - Mentioned in the interview The Pharmacists’ Summit - from MIMS Healthcare Network Two evenings of online learning on 30 November and 1 December for pharmacists working in primary care. For more information and to register for yo...

What list cleaning means for GP capacity, neighbourhood contract doubts, plus what is 'good' GP access?

Sep 18, 2026 42 min

This week Nick and Emma discuss the latest on list cleaning and what it means for GP funding, as well as how it is affecting individual practices and patients. They look again at neighbourhood contracts after seeing various responses to NHS England’s consultation - they assess what GP organisations and others had to say about the proposals and what it could mean longer term. And they talk about access and continuity following the results from our own survey and also the publication of a report by MPs into access across all areas of primary care,. This week’s good news story is about the CQC showcasing positive work in general practice. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links ● List cleaning has slashed equivalent of 30m appointments from GP practices ● 'Patients have missed out on medication because they've been removed unfairly' ● Neighbourhood contracts untested and may not be necessary, warns RCGP ● Neighbourhood contracts risk imposing form over function, warns NAPC ● Viewpoint: Neighbourhood contracts bring risk - but also opportunity for GPs ● Government focus on GP access 'undermining quality and continuity' ● NHS needs 'fundamental shift' of resources to primary care, MPs say ● CQC highlights best practice examples from GP inspections Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GP Money Matters: The pension gap explained (and what you can do)

Sep 15, 2026 21 min

GP Money Matters is a series of special bonus episodes of Talking General Practice sponsored by Wesleyan where we look at key personal finance issues that affect GPs. It’s pensions awareness week and in this episode Wendy Baillie, a chartered financial planner and regional manager at Wesleyan Financial Services, speaks to GPonline editor Emma Bower about the pension gap, what it is and what GPs can do about it. Wendy explains why GPs can face a shortfall between their expected retirement income and what their pension will deliver. She discusses how modern working patterns, including portfolio careers, reduced sessions, and taking time away for family or caring responsibilities, can impact NHS pension accumulation. Wendy also sets out practical steps GPs can take to assess their retirement outlook early, and explains the importance of reviewing financial plans whenever working arrangements change and the options available to help build flexibility into your future retirement. This episode was produced by Czarina Deen. This podcast is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Individual circumstances may vary. Useful links To learn more about the financial considerations discussed in this podcast, you can book an appointment with a specialist financial adviser at Wesleyan Financial Services. Charges may apply. If you want to find out more about Wesleyan following this podcast, you can visit wesleyan.co.uk/gppodcast About Wesleyan Wesleyan Financial Services supports doctors with advice shaped around the realities of the profession. From complex income structures and portfolio careers to the NHS Pension Scheme and retirement options, its Specialist Financial Advisers work closely with doctors every day. Recognised by the NHS as able to give guidance on the NHS Pension Scheme, Wesleyan brings trusted expertise to key financial decisions. Combining financial planning, investment advice and protection, it helps doctors make...

How GPs and practices can address health inequalities

Sep 11, 2026 33 min

Emma speaks to Dr Dominic Patterson, a GP in Doncaster, chair of the Royal College of GPs Health Equity Special Interest Group, and CEO of the charity Fair Health. In this conversation, Dominic talks about the college’s new Fairer Practice Toolkit, which provides practical, evidence-informed steps GP practices can take to tackle health inequalities. He explains how the toolkit breaks down over 100 actions into accessible tiers, supporting practices to make a meaningful difference. He also explains why practices should consider reframing DNAs through the lens of ‘missingness’ to better support vulnerable groups, how health equity focused training schemes are encouraging GPs into deprived practices, and simple changes - such as reviewing practice registration barriers - that make a big difference. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links ● RCGP Fairer Practice Toolkit ● RCGP Health Equity Special Interest Group ● Fair Health ● NHS England’s Core 20-plus framework Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How much are GPs earning, neighbourhood contract plans, GMC duty of care appeal

Sep 4, 2026 39 min

The GPonline team discusses the key news stories affecting general practice. Warning: This episode of the podcast includes discussion of suicide in the section about the GMC’s duty of care. This week we look at what we know about GP earnings after the latest data based on GPs’ tax returns for 2024/25 were published. He outlines what the figures tell us about how much both salaried GPs and GP partners are being paid and differences in earnings across England and the UK more widely. With NHS England’s consultation on new neighbourhood contracts set to close next week, the team discusses how these contracts could work in practice and what the BMA thinks about some of the proposals. And they talk about a legal appeal that is arguing that the GMC has a duty of care to the doctors it is investigating and what this means for the profession more widely. Our good news story this week is about how GPs in some parts of the country are leading the development of new neighbourhood services. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower, deputy editor Nick Bostock and senior reporter Kimberley Hackett. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links ● GP income slowed in England in 2024/25 compared with rest of UK ● Regional income gap rising for partners but not salaried GPs ● ICBs will be expected to put more services and funds into GP neighbourhood contracts ● More PCN DES variations are imminent, says NHS England ● Doctor’s suicide drives legal challenge over GMC’s duty of care ● Midlands GPs agree £1m deal to run neighbourhood model GPs lead roll out of multi-million pound neighbourhood scheme Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why we need safe workload limits in general practice - and how to introduce them

Aug 28, 2026 27 min

This week Emma speaks to Dr Jess Court, the acting chair of Nottinghamshire LMC, about safe working limits in general practice. In this conversation, Jess explains what safe working limits look like in day-to-day practice, why capping patient contacts and moving to 15-minute appointments is vital for patient safety, and how policies like unlimited online consultations are exacerbating GP workload and burnout. She also talks about the safe working charter developed by Nottinghamshire LMC, how practices can push back against unresourced workload transfers from secondary care, and the practical steps practice managers and GP partners can take to start embedding a safe working culture. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links ● A blog for the BMA by Jess on this ● BMA safe working guidance ● Nottinghamshire Local Medical Committee Safe Working Charter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GP Money Matters: Understanding your NHS Pension statement

Aug 24, 2026 26 min

GP Money Matters is a series of special bonus episodes of Talking General Practice sponsored by Wesleyan where we look at key personal finance issues that affect GPs. In this episode GPonline editor Emma Bower speaks to Wendy Baillie, a chartered financial planner and regional manager at Wesleyan Financial Services, about how to decode your NHS pension statement, and why taking a closer look at it is vital for your long-term financial planning. Wendy explains what these statements actually tell you, including crucial details on your pensionable pay, service history, and spousal benefits. She also outlines the most common misunderstandings around NHS pensions, how to navigate issues like the McCloud remedy and the annual allowance threshold, what you should be checking annually to spot errors, and when you may need to seek professional guidance. This episode was produced by Czarina Deen. This podcast is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Individual circumstances may vary. Useful links To learn more about the financial considerations discussed in this podcast, you can book an appointment with a specialist financial adviser at Wesleyan Financial Services. Charges may apply. If you want to find out more about Wesleyan following this podcast, you can visit wesleyan.co.uk/gppodcast About Wesleyan Wesleyan Financial Services supports doctors with advice shaped around the realities of the profession. From complex income structures and portfolio careers to the NHS Pension Scheme and retirement options, its Specialist Financial Advisers work closely with doctors every day. Recognised by the NHS as able to give guidance on the NHS Pension Scheme, Wesleyan brings trusted expertise to key financial decisions. Combining financial planning, investment advice and protection, it helps doctors make confident, informed choices. 96% of doctors rated their specialist financial adviser as very good or excellent, reflecting a focused...

Advice and guidance linked to patient harm, list cleaning hits deprived areas, Mounjaro prescribing

Aug 21, 2026 37 min

Our regular news review is back! In this week’s episode Emma, Nick and Kimberley look at advice and guidance and single point of access for referrals after our own survey found that most GPs have seen a referral rejected inappropriately and nearly one in 10 have seen a patient harmed as a result. Meanwhile an interim report by the Health Services Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB) has linked advice and guidance to two patient deaths. They discuss list clearing after an analysis by Nick found that deprived areas have been hit hardest by this process, and figures showed 200,000 patients were cut from GP lists in a single month. Nick explains what this all means for practices and GP funding. And they look at the roll out of tirzepatide or Mounjaro, after an investigation by Kimberley suggested that less than a quarter of eligible patients were prescribed the drug on the NHS over the past year. This week’s good news story is about a fall in ICU admissions for infants after roll out of the RSV vaccine. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower, deputy editor Nick Bostock and senior reporter Kimberley Hackett. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links ● GPs report patient harm as referral reforms kick in ● AI responses, patronising advice, more work: GP verdict on advice and guidance ● Watchdog links advice and guidance to patient deaths ● Deprived areas hit hardest by 'reckless' list cleaning ● Huge acceleration in list cleaning cuts 200,000 patients in a single month ● Just 1 in 4 eligible patients prescribed tirzepatide, GPonline investigation suggests ● GPs need support to speed up NHS tirzepatide rollout, says MP Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New BMA England GP committee chair Dr Clare Bannon on securing a better deal for general practice

Aug 14, 2026 38 min

This week Emma speaks to the new chair of the BMA England GP committee Dr Clare Bannon. Clare has been in the role for just over a month and, in this conversation, she sets out her priorities and her plans to reset the BMA’s relationship with the government and NHS England. She discusses the committee’s key demands, including an extra £40 to £50 per patient in core funding and meaningful GP contract reform - and the importance of establishing a roadmap to meet those aims. She also talks about the underemployment crisis facing sessional GPs, the controversy surrounding NHS England’s list cleaning exercise, and concerns over single point of access referral pathways. And she shares her thoughts on neighbourhood health contracts and where the committee stands on further collective action - and a potential Plan B ballot. This episode is presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links GP funding ‘has not kept pace’ with exp[anding NHS role GPs report patient harm as referral reforms kick in BMA sets out next step in collective action for August GPs denied billions as hospital funding grows 50% faster than primary care Half of GPs say NHS general practice not financially viable ahead of 'Plan B' vote Aggressive list cleaning to run over four-year cycle as reinvestment plans emerge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GP Money Matters: Portfolio careers and your personal finances

Aug 11, 2026 22 min

GP Money Matters is a series of special bonus episodes of Talking General Practice sponsored by Wesleyan where we look at key personal finance issues that affect GPs. In this episode GPonline editor Emma Bower speaks to Wendy Baillie, a chartered financial planner and regional manager at Wesleyan Financial Services, about the rise of portfolio careers in general practice and what this means for GPs’ finances. New research from Wesleyan reveals that holding multiple roles has become the norm, with over two-thirds of doctors having portfolio careers. Wendy explains the hidden complexities of juggling multiple roles, including the risk of unexpected tax bills, NHS pension headaches and the surprising hurdles GPs face when trying to secure a mortgage. She also offers some practical guidance about to approach your finances holistically to avoid these pitfalls. This episode was produced by Czarina Deen. This podcast is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Individual circumstances may vary. Useful links The research mentioned in this podcast has been commissioned by Wesleyan Assurance Society and you can visit wesleyan.co.uk/portfolio-careers for more information. To learn more about the financial considerations discussed in this podcast, you can book an appointment with a specialist financial adviser at Wesleyan Financial Services. Charges may apply. If you want to find out more about Wesleyan following this podcast, you can visit wesleyan.co.uk/gppodcast About Wesleyan Wesleyan Financial Services supports doctors with advice shaped around the realities of the profession. From complex income structures and portfolio careers to the NHS Pension Scheme and retirement options, its Specialist Financial Advisers work closely with doctors every day. Recognised by the NHS as able to give guidance on the NHS Pension Scheme, Wesleyan brings trusted expertise to key financial decisions. Combining financial planning, investment advi...

Pursuing a GP career after recovering from addiction

Aug 7, 2026 25 min

This week we’re sharing a conversation that was originally recorded for our sister podcast, MIMS Learning’s Clinical Update. MIMS Learning deputy editor Rhiannon Ashman speaks with Dr Michael Blackmore, a GP partner, chair of the RCGP West Scotland Faculty, and a recovering addict, about the often hidden issue of addiction and recovery within the medical profession. In this candid and powerful conversation, Michael shares his personal journey of struggling with addiction while practicing medicine, his path to recovery with support from services like NHS Practitioner Health, and how his lived experience now shapes his clinical work. He also offers insightful advice on spotting unhealthy coping mechanisms, breaking down stigma, and where healthcare professionals can turn for help. Warning: This podcast includes discussion of addiction and suicide. This episode was produced by Jude Owen and Czarina Deen. Useful links ● Sick Doctors Trust - support and help for doctors with dependence on drugs or alcohol ● Practitioner Health - a free, confidential NHS primary care-led mental health and addiction service for doctors and other NHS staff ● British Doctors & Dentists Group - recovery group for doctors and dentists with addictions ● MIMS Learning You can listen to this episode, complete a learning log and export this to your appraisal folder on MIMS Learning here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How women’s health hubs can help improve care

Jul 24, 2026 33 min

This week Emma speaks to Dr Stephanie Cook, clinical lead for the Women's Health Hubs in Liverpool, a GP with a special interest in women's health, and a director of the Primary Care Women's Health Society. Stephanie discusses how women’s health hubs can bring care closer to home, slash waiting times, and help tackle health inequalities - and explains how the Liverpool hub model works in practice, We also discuss the systemic barriers facing women’s health services, including the lack of sustainable funding, the impact of removing women's health from the NHS planning guidance, and the importance of moving care from hospitals and into the community. This episode is presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Renewed Women's Health Strategy for England Primary Care Women’s Health Society women’s health hub toolkit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we ensure women GPs thrive in general practice?

Jul 17, 2026 29 min

Emma speaks with Dr Ruth Abrams, an organisational psychologist and associate professor at the University of Surrey School of Health Sciences , about her recent research published in the BJGP on the conditions in which women GPs thrive. Ruth discusses why women GPs experience disproportionate rates of stress and lower career progression. She talks about the medical gender pay gap and outlines five practical actions individual GP practices can take right now to foster a fairer, more flexible, and supportive environment. Ruth also highlights critical gaps in current research and explains why we need national, systemic policy changes to ensure workforce sustainability, rather than simply telling individuals to be more resilient. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Investigating the conditions in which women GPs thrive in General Practice: A realist review - Ruth’s paper in the BJGP Workplace Thriving - the website Ruth mentions in this conversation Easing parenting challenges in primary care workforce - an article by Ruth in the BMJ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the 10-year plan on track, GP premises challenges, job shortage for new GPs

Jul 10, 2026 39 min

This week Emma, Nick and Kimberley look at the government’s 10-year health plan one year on and ask how much progress has been made, whether it is on track and what needs to happen next. They also talk about PCN contract variations after every practice in Kent signed up to the first deal of this kind. They look at GP premises after the government announced its 10-year capital investment plan for the NHS and NHS England chair Dr Penny Dash angered GPs after saying that GP practices have ‘twice as much floor space’ as they need. They also discuss some of the challenges of getting new premises developments off the ground. And they look at whether or not the GP jobs crisis is beginning to ease as thousands of GP registrars prepare to qualify in the coming weeks. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower, deputy editor Nick Bostock and senior reporter Kimberley Hackett. It was produced by Czarina Deen Useful links One year on, is the 10-year health plan on track? Kent DES variation hands GPs ARRS cash upfront AI triage rollout fast-tracked for GP surgeries GP premises fund falls short of upgrade target GP fury as NHS boss claims practices have twice the space they need 'There aren't enough jobs': new GPs face waiting lists for shifts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Katie Bramall on three years as BMA GP chair and why it's time to step back

Jul 3, 2026 40 min

Emma speaks to BMA England GP committee chair Dr Katie Bramall about her decision not to stand for re-election when her three-year term ends this month and the highs and lows of her time in the role. Katie reflects on an extraordinary three years for general practice, including navigating challenging GP contract negotiations during a tight funding climate and leading historic collective action by the profession. She explains the personal and organisational reasons behind her decision to pass on the baton, and how she managed the intense internal and external challenges facing the committee. Katie also outlines what her departure means for the ongoing dispute with the government, updates us on the next phases of collective action, and shares her advice for her successor as well as her hopes for the future of general practice. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links GPs to refuse shared care agreements in third phase of collective action BMA to ballot GPs on switch to 'Plan B' semi-private contract Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GP Money Matters: GP career trends and financial planning

Jun 30, 2026 23 min

GP Money Matters is a series of special bonus episodes of Talking General Practice sponsored by Wesleyan where we look at key personal finance issues that affect GPs. In this episode GPonline editor Emma Bower talks to Wendy Baillie, a chartered financial planner and the retirement lead for the medical division at Wesleyan, about research the company recently undertook looking at GP career trends and GPs’ views on various personal finance issues. Wendy explains how GPs’ attitude to work has changed in recent years, the impact workload and future uncertainty about the GP contract has had on decisions to retire early or move towards a portfolio career, and what that means for GPs’ finances. She also offers some practical guidance for GPs on financial planning and ensuring they have the money they need for the future that they want. This episode was produced by Czarina Deen. This podcast is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Individual circumstances may vary. Useful linksThe research mentioned in this podcast was commissioned by Wesleyan Assurance Society – visit wesleyan.co.uk/theory-in-practice for more information. To learn more about the financial considerations discussed in this podcast, you can book an appointment with a specialist financial adviser at Wesleyan Financial Services. Charges may apply. If you want to find out more about Wesleyan following this podcast, you can visit wesleyan.co.uk/gppodcast About Wesleyan Wesleyan Financial Services supports doctors with advice shaped around the realities of the profession. From complex income structures and portfolio careers to the NHS Pension Scheme and retirement options, its Specialist Financial Advisers work closely with doctors every day. Recognised by the NHS as able to give guidance on the NHS Pension Scheme, Wesleyan brings trusted expertise to key financial decisions. Combining financial planning, investment advice and protection, it helps doctors make...

GPs push back on list cleaning, QOF obesity flaws, ARRS underspend

Jun 26, 2026 27 min

Nick and Emma look at the impact the current list cleaning drive has had on GP practices and explain why GP leaders have called for a pause in the process amid fears of inappropriate removals and a huge loss of funding for the profession. They talk about prescribing for obesity, after the BMA warned that the funding practices will receive for new QOF targets on this is unlikely to cover the cost of the work involved, and the union warned that some ICBs are cutting back on locally commissioned services related to prescribing Mounjaro since it has been added to the QOF. And they look at the additional roles reimbursement scheme after we found that millions of pounds earmarked for the scheme went unspent in 2025/26. Our good news story this week is about those GPs who received awards in the King’s Birthday Honours List. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links GP funding 'siphoned off' by unprecedented scale of patient removals, warns BMA LMCs demand urgent list cleaning review as fears rise over inappropriate removals List cleaning chaos leaves popular GP practice on the brink Where have GP practices been hit hardest by list cleaning? GP practices could boycott underfunded QOF obesity target More than £81m of ARRS cash unclaimed in 2025/26 GPs recognised in King's Birthday Honours List Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Addressing the challenges facing rural general practice

Jun 19, 2026 30 min

This week Emma speaks to GP Dr Emma Watts, a dispensing doctor based in Surrey and the chair of the RCGP's Rural Forum, about the distinct challenges facing rural general practice. Emma discusses how urban-centric policies, mounting financial constraints, and operational pressures are driving rural practice closures. She also highlights hidden health inequalities in rural areas, such as homelessness, and explains why the government's proposed framework for a neighbourhood NHS fails to consider the reality facing remote, rural, and dispensing practices. And she explains the Rural Minds Project, an innovative training programme using virtual reality headsets to support mental health in UK farming communities. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links RCGP Rural Forum Rural Minds Project Talking General Practice episode with Dr Richard West from the Dispensing Doctors’ Association Dispensing Doctors’ Association Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GPs hit by list cleaning chaos, neighbourhood contracts, access vs continuity

Jun 12, 2026 37 min

This week Nick and Emma talk about list cleaning, after an analysis by Nick showed that 350,000 patients have been removed from GP practice lists, resulting in a loss of around £45m from practice funding. Nick explains why this happens and the impact it has on individual practices. They discuss GP contracts, looking at the first area in England that has agreed a local variation to PCN contracts, BMA fears about what neighbourhood and integrated health organisation contracts could mean for general practice and whether financial pressures on the current GP contract could make GPs back an alternative model. And they look at the impact successive governments’ obsession with GP access has had, after a report from the House of Commons public accounts committee found that practices struggle to provide the care frail, older patients need because they are overwhelmed with targets linked to improving access. Our good news story this week is about an initiative in Greater Manchester that has helped cut hazardous prescribing. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links 'Aggressive' list-cleaning drive strips 350,000 patients from GP practices 'We're overwhelmed' - practices swamped by scale of patient removals GPs agree first local PCN contract variation in £10m neighbourhood deal Hospital-led general practice 'likely' outcome of government NHS plans, warns BMA NHS England has overloaded GPs with access targets, MPs warn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GP Money Matters: Understanding your NHS pension and the McCloud judgment

Jun 9, 2026 32 min

GP Money Matters is a series of special bonus episodes of Talking General Practice sponsored by Wesleyan where we look at key personal finance issues that affect GPs. In this episode GPonline editor Emma Bower talks to Wendy Baillie, a chartered financial planner and the retirement lead for the medical division at Wesleyan, about the complexities of the NHS pension scheme and the specific challenges currently facing GPs. Wendy provides a recap on the McCloud judgment, the high court ruling about unfair changes to public pension schemes, and explains why the resulting administrative backlog is making it difficult for doctors to get the finalised numbers they need to plan their retirement. She discusses the risks of making decisions about retirement without full information on your pension and practical steps GPs can take at different stages of their careers to ensure their pension is in good health. Wendy outlines what you need to consider to ensure you have the retirement you want, particularly if you hope to retire early. This episode was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful linksFind out more about Wesleyan About Wesleyan Wesleyan Financial Services supports doctors with advice shaped around the realities of the profession. From complex income structures and portfolio careers to the NHS Pension Scheme and retirement options, its Specialist Financial Advisers work closely with doctors every day. Recognised by the NHS as able to give guidance on the NHS Pension Scheme, Wesleyan brings trusted expertise to key financial decisions. Combining financial planning, investment advice and protection, it helps doctors make confident, informed choices. 96% of doctors rated their specialist financial adviser as very good or excellent, reflecting a focused service that helps doctors protect their income, grow wealth and plan ahead with confidence. Remember: The value of investments can go down as well as up, and you may get back less than you invest. Wesleyan Financial Services Lt...

How we can keep experienced GPs working in the NHS

Jun 5, 2026 31 min

Emma speaks to Dr Nada Khan, a GP in Exeter and clinical lecturer in general practice at Exeter University, about her recent study on GP retention. In this conversation, Nada explains how GP workload has become increasingly intense, fragmented, and risk-laden, and she describes the impact of hybrid access models and moral distress on GPs - all of which is causing experienced doctors to cut back on sessions they work or leave the profession altogether. She also highlights the critical factors that help GPs stay in practice, including the importance of continuity of care, supportive practice teams, and establishing clear workload boundaries . And Nada describes what national policymakers need to understand to address the retention crisis among mid-to-late career GPs, and the practical changes individual practices can make on the ground to support their staff. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Sustaining a career in general practice: A qualitative study of experienced GPs in South West England Advice and guidance 'ping-pong' fuelling the GP retention crisis Viewpoint: Why experienced GPs are leaving the NHS and how we can keep them Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BMA to ballot on ‘plan B’ for GP contracts, NHS workforce plan, single patient record fears

May 29, 2026 42 min

Emma and Nick talk about the ongoing dispute between the BMA and the government about this year’s GP contract and what the BMA will be asking GP practices to do from 1 June as it steps up collective action. They discuss a vote at the UK LMCs conference earlier this month, which saw LMC representatives back exploring the radical step of moving towards a hybrid NHS/private model for general practice - and the BMA’s confirmation that it plans to ballot the profession on this. They look at an update NHS England published on the GP contract at the end of last week as well as looking ahead to the government’s new NHS workforce plan, which is expected to be published next month, and what that needs to do to ensure there are enough GPs to meet the demands of an ageing population. And they talk about the government’s new Health Bill and what that means for general practice - in particular the plans for a single patient record. And we’ll be talking at This episode is presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen Useful links BMA sets out next steps as GPs ramp up collective action BMA to ballot GPs on switch to 'Plan B' semi-private contract GP leaders vote to explore NHS/private 'dentist model' for general practice Wes Streeting’s legacy as health and social care secretary NHS clarifies locum rules on GP reimbursement in contract update What does the new Health Bill mean for GPs? GPs should be fastest-growing part of NHS workforce, experts say Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside the government's flagship neighbourhood health programme

May 22, 2026 48 min

This week Talking General Practice is looking at the National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme - or NNHIP. This is the NHS England and government programme to support the development of neighbourhood health with 43 pioneer sites across England leading the way to test how integrated neighbourhood teams and neighbourhood approaches can better support patients. To find out what this looks like on the frontline, Emma speaks to leaders from two of those pioneer sites. Dr Zalan Alam, a GP in Rochdale, discusses his work in intermediate care and the importance of building trust across care boundaries to tackle frailty and reduce unnecessary hospital admissions. Meanwhile, Rachel Stead, strategic PCN manager for South Sefton PCN, shares the success of their innovative adverse childhood experiences programme and highlights the need for infrastructure and funding to ensure neighbourhood working is sustainable for general practice. Zalan and Rachel discuss the reality of integrated working, what the future could hold, and why general practice must remain the cornerstone of any successful neighbourhood model. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen Useful links As part of the MIMS Healthcare Network, GPonline has produced a new report for our subscribers on neighbourhood health - view the report here.National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme websiteSefton’s adverse childhood experiences programmeCould new PCN rules make neighbourhood contracts redundant? MIMS Learning Live MIMS Learning Live South is returning to London on Friday 12 June 2026, and tickets are free to book. This is your chance to boost your clinical know-how, connect with peers from across the UK, and gain fresh insights that can make a real difference in your patients’ lives. This year’s clinical programme covers issues including obesity management, paediatrics, women's health and cardiology. We’re also running a GP Business hub stream...

Will collective action work, unpicking the GP reimbursement scheme, what PCN variation means

May 15, 2026 39 min

The GPonline team talks about collective action, after the BMA GP committee narrowly voted in favour of the move, what that action involves and what needs to happen to resolve the dispute. They look at the practice-level reimbursement scheme for GPs, how that is going to work and some of the issues and challenges the scheme could present. And they discuss some late changes to the network contract DES - the contract that governs how primary care networks work - which will allow ICBs to introduce local variations to help develop neighbourhoods and what that could all mean in practice. In our good news story this week, Emma reflects on a conference on tackling health inequalities she attended this week and the great work going on in many local communities. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower, deputy editor Nick Bostock and senior reporter Kimberley Hackett. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links BMA lays out collective action roadmap and escalation plan Will GPs unite behind collective action? NHS Modernisation Bill to introduce single patient record Practice-level GP reimbursement scheme limited to salaried GPs Restrictive GP contract changes 'will not boost access' Could new PCN rules make neighbourhood contracts redundant? PCNs should refuse contract variations if work is not properly funded, says BMA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lessons from a pioneering practice on making neighbourhood health work

May 8, 2026 33 min

Emma speaks to Dr John Ribchester, a GP partner at Whitstable Medical Practice in Kent, a practice that is frequently cited as a leading example of the ‘neighbourhood NHS’ in action. The practice has spent years shifting services like diagnostics, day surgery, and urgent care out of hospital and into the community. John explains the journey his practice took to develop this model, including the financial risks involved in building GP-owned premises capable of housing consultant clinics, diagnostics and an urgent treatment centre and why he believes working as a single-practice PCN has helped them to do this. He also highlights some of the challenges the practice has faced along the way and the changes he thinks the government could introduce to make working in this way easier. And he offers some practical advice for GPs and primary care teams looking to create change from the ground up. As part of the MIMS Healthcare Network, GPonline has produced a new report for our subscribers on neighbourhood health - view the report here.. This episode was produced by Czarina Deen. MIMS Learning Live MIMS Learning Live South is returning to London on Friday 12 June 2026, and tickets are free to book. This is your chance to boost your clinical know-how, connect with peers from across the UK, and gain fresh insights that can make a real difference in your patients’ lives. This year’s clinical programme covers issues including obesity management, paediatrics, women's health and cardiology. We’re also running a GP Business hub stream aimed at GP partners, practice managers and PCN managers, which will cover practice finance, neighbourhood working, using AI in practice and how to meet the challenges of rising patient demand. Get your tickets here www.mimslearninglive.com/south Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can the NHS win GPs over on advice and guidance, plus GP partnership fears

May 1, 2026 34 min

In our regular news review, the GPonline team talks about advice and guidance after NHS England was forced to clarify that there was no national target for diverting GP referrals. They also look at some new guidance from the BMA on advice and guidance and whether GPs have been involved locally with the development of controversial single point of access systems that NHS England say will overhaul referrals. They discuss the state of the GP partnership after a private company, Operose Health, approached GP partners with the offer to ‘liberate them’ from the pressure of running a practice. And there’s a brief look ahead to the UK LMCs conference, which starts on 13 May. Our good news story this week is about a practice in North Yorkshire that has been saved from closure. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower, deputy editor Nick Bostock and senior reporter Kimberley Hackett. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Can NHS England bring GPs on board with advice and guidance reforms? NHS rules out 'national target' to cut GP referrals in advice and guidance update BMA hails progress in talks with DHSC as GP collective action deadline nears Private provider offers to 'liberate GP partners' from running NHS practices GPs to debate quitting NHS amid warnings over 'Amazon-style' access Practices rally round to stop village losing GP services Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why more research should happen in general practice - and how to get involved

Apr 24, 2026 28 min

Emma speaks to Professor Greg Irving, an academic GP and the national specialty lead for general practice at the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). In this conversation, Greg discusses the essential role of research in general practice and how it is being embedded into the government’s 10-year plan as the NHS shifts focus from hospitals to the community. He explains the various ways the NIHR supports and funds research in primary care, highlighting opportunities for practices to get involved—from light-touch studies to more complex commercial research. Greg also addresses common concerns about the workload associated with research and highlights how it can improve quality of care, boost job satisfaction for the practice team, and help tackle health inequalities and offers practical advice for practices wanting to get involved. And Emma and Greg also discuss the shift toward neighbourhood working and how general practice is uniquely placed to lead research into complex challenges like multiple long-term conditions. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links NIHR School for Primary Care Research NIHR Regional Research Delivery Network (RRDN) Practices can access commercial study opportunities via the National Contract Value Review (NCVR) Funding and infrastructure opportunities that are available, such as the NIHR Capital Infrastructure NIHR primary care strategy and research programme Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why experienced GPs are leaving the NHS, spiralling GP workload, collective action

Apr 17, 2026 27 min

This week Nick and Emma discuss GP retention and look at the reasons why experienced doctors are leaving the role and what the NHS needs to do to ensure more GPs remain in the job for longer. They talk about how the expanded use of online consultations has impacted on GP workload and fears about what this year’s GP contract – which introduces new same-day access targets and changes to GP referrals – and the push towards neighbourhoods could mean for practice workload. And they discuss the latest on this year’s GP contract, including what we know about the practice-level reimbursement scheme for GPs and possible collective action by GPs. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Advice and guidance 'ping-pong' fuelling the GP retention crisis Viewpoint: Why experienced GPs are leaving the NHS and how we can keep them GP workforce at 10-year high, government claims GPs working 20 hours a day to clear avalanche of online requests Steep rise in online consultations over past year, latest data show Preparations underway for return to GP collective action Practice-level GP reimbursement scheme will not begin until May Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Improving perinatal care and the role of primary care

Apr 10, 2026 33 min

Emma talks to Dr Liz Dapré, an academic GP and co-chair of the group GPs Championing Perinatal Care (GPCPC) about the vital role of primary care in maternal and perinatal health. In this conversation Liz and Emma discuss the key problems in perinatal care across the NHS and what needs to happen to address some of these issues. Liz explains how GPCPC is working to ensure the voice of general practice is heard by national policymakers and what it does to support GPs. She also talks about health inequalities in maternal health, the role GPs can play in tackling these and provides practical advice on delivering high-quality 6-to-8-week postnatal checks – explaining why these should be seen as a holistic review of a woman’s transition to parenthood rather than just a series of clinical boxes to tick. And they talk about how GPs can better identify and support women following birth trauma, as well as managing gestational diabetes and the ongoing risks for women affected by this. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links ● Women with gestational diabetes should be referred to the Diabetes Prevention Programme ● GPs Championing Perinatal Care ● NHS England 6- to 8-week postnatal check guidance ● Improving maternal postnatal check uptake in general practice using an opt-out equitable model of access: results of a 12- month quality improvement project, by Dr Dhiviya Tharan ● City Birth Trauma Scale questionnaire Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens now GPs have rejected the contract, plus will GP pay rise by 3.5%?

Apr 3, 2026 34 min

Emma and Nick discuss the results of the BMA referendum on the GP contract and what happens next, including whether GPs will take action and what health and social care secretary Wes Streeting has said about this. They talk about this year’s GP contract deal after the DDRB recommended a 3.5% pay increase for GPs and practice staff and updated contract guidance for PCNs was published - highlighting some of the key challenges facing practices as the new financial year begins. Our good news story this week is about the annual British Social Attitudes survey, which showed satisfaction with general practice has risen to its highest point since 2021. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links GPs vote overwhelmingly to reject 2026/27 contract GPs could start collective action in April if contract talks fail GP pay rise 'could fall short' amid rising inflation Government reveals details of 2026/27 GP contract funding GPs already hired with PCN cash can move to new practice-level scheme Lack of detail on new GP reimbursement scheme ‘completely unacceptable’ Public satisfaction with general practice highest since 2021 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RCGP registrar co-chairs on the jobs crisis, the future of GP training and IMG GP visas

Mar 27, 2026 33 min

This week Emma speaks to the RCGP’s registrar co-chairs, Dr Tom France and Dr Molly Dineen about the issues currently facing GP registrars across the UK. Tom and Molly talk about the ongoing GP jobs crisis and the intense frustration surrounding underemployment and unemployment at the end of training. They explain their concerns about the GP jobs available under the additional roles reimbursement scheme and stress the importance of a fully funded, detailed workforce plan from the government to address the mismatch between rising training numbers and available jobs. Tom and Molly also outline their key priorities for the year ahead, including the need for greater consistency in training and the urgent requirement for better visa sponsorship support for international medical graduates. And they discuss how GP training might need to change and what they would like to see from policymakers to ensure that general practice remains an attractive and viable career for the next generation of doctors. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links ● RCGP registrar committee ● GP training resources on GPonline ● Why a 'heartbroken' new GP gave up his dream career in UK general practice - Former RCGP registrar co-chair speaks to GPonline Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What NHS guidance reveals about neighbourhoods, advice and guidance shake-up, GP locum rates

Mar 20, 2026 42 min

This week Emma, Nick and Kimberley talk about the government’s plans for neighbourhoods - after the long-awaited neighbourhood health framework was published this week - and what it all means for general practice. They also look in more detail at how GP contract changes to advice and guidance link into this and whether these changes could impede GPs’ right to refer, what they could mean for workload in general practice and concerns about patient safety. And they discuss the results of our annual GP locum rates survey and what it tells us about rates of pay for locum GPs and how the jobs crisis has impacted on locums. Our good news story this week is about a new ADHD service set up by the GP federation in Leeds which is helping to cut waiting times for assessment and treatment. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower, deputy editor Nick Bostock and senior reporter Kimberley Hackett. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Government reveals how neighbourhood model will fit with GP contract Neighbourhood plans ramp up focus on GP access and advice and guidance Minister outlines timetable for 'new Carr-Hill formula' Mandatory advice and guidance adds to patient safety risks, warns LMC GP locum rates fall in England but rise in rest of UK Locum GP earnings hit as most struggle to find enough work Uncoordinated NHS reforms causing 'widespread disruption' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tackling the GP jobs crisis and standing up for salaried and locum GPs

Mar 13, 2026 34 min

This week Emma speaks to the co-chairs of the BMA sessional GP committee Dr Amy Small and Dr Kim Rollinson about the jobs crisis and how they hope to better represent sessional GPs. In this conversation they discuss how the shortage of jobs is affecting locum and salaried GPs across the country and what needs to be done to address this issue. They explain what salaried GPs should look out for when signing contracts, and what GP partners can do to be good employers and ensure their staff and locum GPs feel valued. They also talk about the push towards a neighbourhood NHS and what that could mean for sessional GPs, as well as how the rise in portfolio working is helping many doctors manage the intense pressures associated with being a GP. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links BMA sessional GP committee website GPs in Scotland end dispute as £531m funding deal agreed Raid on PCN cash to fund practice-level recruitment as ARRS rules changed Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Katie Bramall on why the new GP contract is unsafe and how GPs can fight back

Mar 5, 2026 45 min

BMA England GP committee chair Dr Katie Bramall speaks to Emma about the 2026/27 GP contract and the BMA’s referendum on the deal, which launched this week. Katie explains why she thinks the 2026/27 contract is a bad deal for general practice and some of the problems around same-day access, advice and guidance and practice funding. She talks about what happens if GPs reject the deal in the referendum, which may mean the profession begins taking action from as early as 1 April. Katie raises the prospect of a ballot on more serious action that could put practices in breach of their contract later in the summer if there is no movement from the government on the contract. She also talks about the government’s plans for a neighbourhood NHS and how this will affect general practice and explains new BMA guidance on what practices and GPs should be doing now. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links BMA briefing paper on neighbourhoods What's in the GP contract for 2026/27? GP referral change revealed as NHS plays down same-day access impact Viewpoint: Why mandatory advice and guidance risks a patient safety fiasco Why the 2026/27 contract risks increased financial pressure for practices MIMS Learning Live Digital 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does the 2026/27 GP contract mean for general practice in England?

Feb 27, 2026 45 min

Nick and Emma explain how the GP contract for 2026/27 in England is set to change, how it will impact on practices and what it means for the current dispute between the BMA and the government. In this episode they talk about what the contract changes mean for practice and PCN finances, and whether the funding increase will make a difference, or boost jobs available for GPs. They also look at a new requirement for same day access for urgent patients, plus changes to the QOF, additional roles reimbursement scheme and how practices are paid for advice and guidance. And they talk about the reaction to the deal and what happens next in the ongoing dispute with the government. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock, It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links What's in the GP contract for 2026/27? - full details of all the changes Contract uplift leaves practices 'treading water' and risks cashflow crisis GP contract funding to rise by £485m in 2026/27 Raid on PCN cash to fund practice-level recruitment as ARRS rules changed New targets on same-day access and obesity in 2026/27 GP contract Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's coming in the 2026/27 GP contract, plus narrowing the GP workforce gap

Feb 20, 2026 34 min

The GPonline team discusses the latest news affecting general practice. This week Emma and Nick look at how the GP workforce is changing across England and which areas are moving quickest towards what’s considered a safe GP patient ratio. They also discuss what we know and don’t know about this year’s GP contract, rounding up a number of stories GPonline has published recently that cover issues including childhood vaccinations, staff pay rises, the GP funding formula review and what forthcoming guidance on neighbourhoods could mean for general practice. For this week’s good news story senior reporter Kimberley Hackett highlights the winners of the London General Practice Awards, which were presented in the Houses of Parliament earlier this month. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower, deputy editor Nick Bostock and senior reporter Kimberley Hackett. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Which areas are moving fastest towards a safe GP-patient ratio? NHS to ramp up GP contract focus on diabetes and child vaccination Which parts of England are furthest behind as child vaccine PR campaign begins? Funding cuts could force GP practices to pull out of flu jab campaign GP contract uplift 'meaningless' without clarity on future of PCNs MPs raise concerns over GP funding formula review Londonwide LMCs award winners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How CQC regulation of general practice is changing

Feb 13, 2026 37 min

Emma speaks to Professor Bola Owolabi, a practising GP in the Midlands and the chief inspector of primary care and community services at the CQC. Before this she director of the National Healthcare Inequalities Improvement Programme at NHS England, where she led the Core20PLUS5 approach to tackling healthcare inequalities. Bola took on her role at the CQC in July last year at a particularly turbulent time for the regulator. In this conversation, she discusses how the CQC is working to turn things around after facing significant criticism about its work, the development of a new sector-specific assessment framework for primary care, and how she hopes inspections will become a less stressful experience for GPs, practice managers and the rest of the practice team. Bola also talks about her own experience of leading the turnaround of a GP practice in a deprived area that was rated inadequate, the role of the CQC in improving care and tackling health inequalities, and how the regulator views the move towards neighbourhood health and the use of AI in general practice. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links CQC regulators pioneers’ fund information Lack of investment in community services will hit plans to shift care out of hospitals, says CQC CQC mythbuster on AI in general practice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will the next GP contract mean a return to collective action, plus signs of rising pressure on GPs

Feb 6, 2026 23 min

Nick and Emma discuss how the BMA plans to respond when details of the 2026/27 GP contract are published, which are expected at some point this month, confusion about the time frame for neighbourhoods and how plans to ramp up advice and guidance could bring even more work to general practice in the coming year. They also look at a couple of stories GPonline has published over the past week or so that show the increasing pressures GPs are under, including the difficulties many doctors have managing childcare arrangements as a result of work. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links BMA reveals stance on 2026/27 GP contract referendum and collective action NHS reveals commissioning plan for multi-neighbourhood providers Why advice and guidance could pile more unsustainable work on GPs next year Uptake of £80m advice and guidance DES falling short What the Health Survey for England shows about pressure on GPs Sixth of GPs have quit a job because of childcare pressures Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How neighbourhoods could affect GP and PCN contracts

Jan 30, 2026 19 min

Emma talks to Robert McCartney, a senior associate in the corporate commercial team at the law firm Hempsons to discuss the shift toward a neighborhood NHS and what this means for the future of general practice. In this conversation, Robert outlines the potential impact new single and multi-neighborhood provider contracts could have and discusses the growing trend of PCNs incorporating as limited companies in response to possible changes and the practicalities of doing this. He also sets out some practical steps practices and PCNs can take now to prepare for the the reform ahead. This episode is an extract from a recent video Robert and I did for our sister site GP Business’s Monthly Briefing series. You can watch the full video, which also includes Roberts thoughts on the future of the partnership model, by visiting https://www.gpbusiness.co.uk/article/1945845/video-neighbourhoods-will-affect-practices-gp-contracts If you are a registered user of GPonline you can use the same login details to access a limited amount of content on GP Business each month. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Young GP partners in freefall, IMG GPs hit hard by jobs crisis, PA legal action

Jan 23, 2026 27 min

This week Emma and Nick discuss a significant fall in the number of young GP partners, the reasons behind this and what the long term impact of this workforce shift might be. They look at the exodus of UK-trained international medical graduate doctors to other countries and talk about why this group has been particularly hard hit by the GP jobs crisis. They also highlight the impact new legislation that will prioritise UK-trained doctors for specialty training posts could have in general practice. And they discuss the latest on legal actions physician assistants are taking against GP practices, the RCGP and the BMA, after new scope of practice guidance lead to many practices reviewing their PAs’ roles and responsibilities. Our good news story this week is about the national rollout of the WorkWell scheme which could help to reduce demand for GP appointments. This episode was presented by GPonline editor Emma Bower and deputy editor Nick Bostock. It was produced by Czarina Deen. Useful links Young GP partners in freefall as risk and uncertainty take toll Why a 'heartbroken' new GP gave up his dream career in UK general practice How prioritising UK graduates will transform competition for GP training Dozens of PAs bid for £7.5m damages from practices, RCGP and BMA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.