The
NHS is on target to reach its goal of recruiting 2,000 more GPs by March 2004,
according to new figures released today by the Department of Health.
A
mini-census of GP numbers shows that between March and June 2003 a further 290
GPs were recruited, bringing the total number recruited since 1999 to 1,530.
This brings the total GP growth rate to 5.4 per cent.
A
number of initiatives have been developed to improve GP recruitment and
retention. These include:
–
The Flexible Careers Scheme being extended to GPs in November 2002. The scheme
aims to offer more opportunities to work flexibly and to help GPs strike the
right work-life balance.
–
The GP Returner Scheme, which was launched in November 2002 to provide a clear,
supported route back into General Practice. Under the scheme, returning GPs
receive paid, individually tailored refresher training, a dedicated return
co-ordinator and a contribution towards their professional expenses.
–
A Delayed Retirement Scheme encourages GPs to stay working longer in the NHS.
The scheme gives GPs aged 60 and over payments of up to £2,000 per year up to a
total of £10,000 spread over five years to continue working to the age of 65.
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