GPs will face ‘more flexible staffing models’ at ICBs according to a newly-launched pilot across seven areas, Pulse has reported.
NASGP is currently in partnership with Suffolk and North East Essex ICB, the integrated care board leading the pilots.
GPs who wants to work in Suffolk and North East Essex qualify for fully-funded use of LocumDeck. When they confirm just one in-person session at any participating local practice on LocumDeck we will automatically give them all the benefits of NASGP membership, and waive local booking fees until 30 June 2025.
ICBs have received a letter that states that the pilots aim to ‘[test] more flexible staffing models a ways of reducing administrative burdens’, discover how to ‘deliver the Fuller Stocktake vision consistently and sustainably’, evaluate ‘digital tools such as process automation and risk stratification’ in general practice and employ ‘dedicated multidisciplinary teams’ to support patients with complex needs.
Commentators have remarked on how the rejection of the current GMS contract and threat of industrial action may affect the success of pilots.
Dr Richard Fieldhouse, NASGP chair, wrote: “The take-home message from many of us over the last year is that, whatever the old model of working flexibly was, it’s not working well for many of us at the moment, with some areas struggling to recruit GPs, and others having an oversupply.
“The Fuller Stocktake is a bold and much needed high-level plan to set forward the direction for effective use of our primary care workforce, tackle lack of adequate premises to practise, and introduce modern digital solutions. All of which, if done well, and is properly funded, could transform general practice.
“GP locums are a safe, efficient and effective part of that transformation, and our thriving partnership with Suffolk and North East Essex ICB will no doubt play a significant part in this pilot.”