The GP Retention Scheme 2017 replaces the Retained Doctors Scheme 2016. The scheme continues to be managed jointly by the local offices of Health Education England (HEE) (through the designated HEE RGP Scheme Leads) and NHS England.
The scheme is aimed at doctors who are seriously considering leaving or have left general practice due to personal reasons (caring responsibilities or personal illness), approaching retirement, or requiring greater flexibility. The scheme supports both the retained GP 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.
Retained GPs may be on the scheme for a maximum of five years with an annual review each year to ensure that the doctor remains in need of the scheme and that the practice is meeting its obligations.
From 1 April 2023, the formal four-session cap that a retained GP can work per week has been removed. Reimbursement will remain for up to four sessions but this does not preclude a contractor from directly employing or engaging a member of the GP Retention Scheme, at their own expense, for service sessions which are in addition to the maximum four sessions for which the contractor is eligible for payment under the Scheme. This scheme enables a doctor to remain in clinical practice which includes protected time for continuing professional development and with educational support.
PLEASE NOTE HEALTH EDUCATION ENGLAND RECOMMENDS APPLICATIONS, BUT IT IS THE LOCAL CCG WHO HAVE FINANCIAL OWNERSHIP OF THE SCHEME AND AS SUCH RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REJECT APPLICATIONS
Who is eligible
Doctors applying for the scheme must be in good standing with the General Medical Council (GMC) without GMC conditions or undertakings - except those relating solely to health matters. The scheme is not intended for the purpose of supporting a doctor’s remediation and where the relevant NHS England Responsible Officer has concerns, the doctor would not usually be eligible for the scheme.
The scheme is open to doctors who meet ALL of the following criteria:
- Where a doctor is seriously considering leaving or has left general practice (but is still on the National Medical Performers List) due to
- Personal reasons – such as caring responsibilities for family members (children or adults) or personal health reasons
- Approaching retirement
- Require greater flexibility in order to undertake other work either within or outside of general practice.