16 Spotlight: New GPs
Starting work as a sessional GP is a thrilling yet daunting time for even the most self-assured individuals. Dr Saheli Chaudhury offers her top ten tips for newly-qualified GPs
1. Don’t be afraid to ask As a GP registrar, you had the support of those training you, and it’s daunting to feel that you’re suddenly on your own. However, remember that you are part of a team, and can still ask for help. GPs are a friendly bunch and excellent communication is the key to being a good GP. There will always be things you don’t know, especially in a new practice. You never stop learning – if you don’t know something, you must ask a senior.
2. Know the ropes One of the difficult things about working as a new locum can be moving between different practices, where initially you are unfamiliar with how everything works – even locating where things are can be a challenge. Before you start, contact the practice and ask if they have a locum pack. As an absolute minimum, you should know where the emergency equipment is kept. As a new salaried GP, ideally you should get a period of induction. It is important to set aside time to sit with practice staff, to
identify who is responsible for what. 3. Accept your limits
The BMA offers advice on employment law and has created a framework of what is expected of you and your employer. If you
feel that you are expected to do too much, then it is important to discuss this with the practice in order that the requisite changes can be made to ensure that there is no risk to patients.
4. Learn from your mistakes Making mistakes can be just as important as your successes. A reflective journal is helpful, and this process is now encompassed in appraisals. If you receive a complaint from a patient, it can be difficult and upsetting, but you should try to use complaints as a learning opportunity, and highlight areas where you could benefit in terms of your professional development.
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5. Networking Being a GP can be very isolating, which can be a shock after the camaraderie of hospital medicine. It’s important to maintain a circle of friends in and out of the profession that you know you can talk to. Attend meetings, courses and training events – these are not only good for your continuing professional development, but they are ideal for seeing your friends and networking.
WORKING LIFE
SESSIONAL GP | VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 2 | 2011 | UNITED KINGDOM
www.mps.org.uk
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