GP Retention scheme

TVW Primary Care School are responsible for quality assuring the GP Retention scheme for doctors in Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire West and Frimley.

What is the GP Retention scheme?

The GP Retention scheme is a package of financial and educational support to help doctors (who might otherwise leave the profession) remain in General Practice.

The scheme supports both the retained GP (RGP) 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.

It is the prospective RGP’s responsibility to find an employing practice to support them on scheme.

If you are struggling to find a suitable practice, your local LMCs may be able to help.

RGPs may be on the scheme for a maximum of five years, with an annual review each year to ensure that the RGP remains in need of the scheme, and that the practice is meeting its obligations.

See section 7.3 duration of the scheme in the GP Retention scheme guidance for full details.

You may also find it useful to refer to section 7.4 extended absences and scheme extensions.

See section 2 eligibility criteria for doctors in the GP Retention scheme guidance for full details.

How to apply for the Retention scheme

Tips for successful application

  • Provide up to date contact details to respond to queries
  • Electronically complete the application form
  • Include your CV and supporting documents alongside the application form. For example, evidence of intentions to leave (appraisal document, resignation letter), relevant clinical information if application is based on health grounds
  • Demonstrate that your personal circumstances would prevent continuing practice in medicine without support, that there will be professional isolation if educational support is not provided, and the practice has capacity and ability to meet your support needs
Read the flowchart for GP Retention scheme application Download the application form

Processes for approved RGPs

Annual review

You will be prompted to complete the annual review at least two months prior to your review date to ensure there is no disruption to your scheme funding.

Submit the annual review Microsoft Form or scan the QR code to complete your section. Responses are required from:

  • The retained GP
  • Their educational supervisor
  • Their practice manager

If you are changing your sessions on scheme, please also complete the RGP weekly session plan hyperlinked below.

Once the review is complete you will be notified, and we will update your local Integrated Care Board (ICB).

Download the RGP weekly session plan

Change of sessions

Please notify us via england.primarycareschooltvw.se@nhs.net of any changes to your work plan, or number of sessions undertaken as part of the scheme.

Download the RGP weekly session plan

Extension requests

Extensions may only be granted in specific circumstances.

Please refer to section 7.4 of the national GP Retention scheme guidance for more information.

Download the extension form

Leaving the scheme

If you are nearing the end of your allocated five years on scheme, you will be notified at least two months prior to your end date.

Please complete the end of Retention scheme Microsoft Form, or scan the QR code to share your feedback.

We will also update your local ICB to confirm the end of scheme.

If you are leaving the scheme early for any reason, please notify us by emailing england.primarycareschooltvw.se@nhs.net. We will issue you with an end of scheme letter and update your ICB accordingly.

Resources

Read more about the national GP Retention scheme Read the BMA salaried GP model contract and offer letter guidance View the national GP Retention scheme guidance

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