A survey of the retention of GPs following the induction and refresher scheme in London

ABSTRACT

The NHS faces challenges in recruiting and retaining GPs. The NHS Long Term Plan aims to increase NHS staffing levels as one of its objectives. The Induction and Refresher (I&R) Scheme supports this aim by providing a safe induction or return to UK practice for GPs who are new to UK general practice or who have been away from it for 2 years or more.

An evaluation of the I&R Scheme in London shows that 94% of all doctors who have been through the Scheme remain on the Medical Performers List with 82% of respondents continuing to work in UK general practice. The implication is that the Scheme is successful in its aim of retaining GPs in NHS practice. Additionally, most respondents found the Scheme to be of value, practically and emotionally in supporting their return to practice whether they were UK returners or if they were new to UK general practice.

KEYWORDS:

• GP
• induction
• I&R
• retention
• NHS workforce

Disclosure statement

No competing interests were declared.