Locum GP work has always been an important aspect of the healthcare system in the UK. However, recent changes in the way healthcare is delivered and a shortage of doctors have raised concerns about the future of locum GP work. In this blog post, we will explore the future of locum GP work in the UK and what it could mean for the healthcare system.
One of the main reasons for the rise in locum GP work is the shortage of GPs in the UK. According to a report by the General Medical Council (GMC), the number of GPs per head of population has fallen by nearly 30% over the past decade. This has resulted in a significant increase in demand for locum GP work, as surgeries struggle to recruit permanent GPs to fill vacancies.
The shortage of GPs is not the only factor contributing to the rise of locum GP work. Changes to the way healthcare is delivered have also had an impact. For example, the NHS 111 service, which provides patients with advice and guidance on healthcare issues, has led to an increase in demand for out-of-hours GP services. This has created new opportunities for locum GPs, who are often used to providing these services.
Another factor that could impact the future of locum GP work is the rise of telemedicine. Telemedicine is the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely. It has become increasingly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, as patients have been encouraged to avoid in-person consultations. While telemedicine has many benefits, it could also lead to a reduction in demand for locum GP work. This is because some consultations could be conducted remotely, reducing the need for GPs to be physically present in a surgery or clinic.
Despite the potential impact of telemedicine, there are still reasons to be optimistic about the future of locum GP work. For example, the UK government has recently announced plans to invest in primary care services, including GP surgeries. This investment could lead to an increase in the number of permanent GP positions, reducing the demand for locum GPs. However, it is important to note that this investment will take time to have an impact and there will likely still be a need for locum GPs in the short term.
Another reason to be optimistic is the rise of portfolio careers among healthcare professionals. Portfolio careers involve working in a variety of roles and settings, rather than in a single job. This approach is becoming increasingly popular among GPs, as it allows them to have more flexibility in their work and a better work-life balance. This could lead to an increase in the number of GPs who choose to work as locums, rather than in permanent positions.
The future of locum GP work in the UK is uncertain, but there are reasons to be both optimistic and cautious. While the shortage of GPs and changes to the way healthcare is delivered have led to an increase in demand for locum GPs, the rise of telemedicine could potentially reduce this demand. However, government investment in primary care services and the rise of portfolio careers could help to maintain demand for locum GP work in the short term. Ultimately, the future of locum GP work will depend on a range of factors, including the availability of permanent GP positions, changes to healthcare delivery and the preferences of individual GPs.
If you are interested in or are considering taking on a locum position, register with us at ThinkLocum for placements in the healthcare industry of your choice. We will match you based on your skills, experience, and preferences.
