Workforce Minimum Data Set (WMDS), GPC Update
This update provides the final legal position that practices are required, under the HSCA, to provide the information requested for the WMDS. The ICO has clearly stated that they would not consider practices to be in breach of the DPA in providing this information required by the HSCIC. For the forthcoming May deadline, data items for clinical staff only are being requested, rather than the whole workforce within a practice. For all other staff, the deadline will be extended to the end of November 2015 (to reflect the practice position as at 30 September 2015). The PCWT is open now for data entry.

Contracts of Employment for Salaried GPs
We would like to remind all practices that the model contract for salaried GPs is strongly recommended as a minimum standard for ALL practices and is a contractual requirement for GMS practices. GPC provide helpful guidance and a sample contract. CLMC has always recommended that all practices ensure all salaried GP contracts meet the terms of the model contract as a minimum when employing salaried GPs. That said, though implied through the PMS Regulatory contract it is not an explicit requirement for PMS practices. If you are changing to a GMS contract from a PMS contract and you have concerns that your salaried GP contracts do not reach the required standard please contact janice.foster@nhs.net for advice prior to signing your new GMS contract.

Focus on GP Contract Payments 15/16
This GPC ‘Focus On’ document outlines the main changes in GP contract payments this year.

Vaccinations & Immunisations Guidance and Contract Changes
The Vaccination and Immunisation programme 2015/16 – Guidance and Audit requirements and the Technical requirements for 2015/16 contract changes have now been published. The GPC provide a helpful summary of the changes in line with the GP contract changes with links to all specifications/guidance

GP Induction and Refresher Scheme
This new scheme will simplify the process for GPs to get back into the workforce by providing a clear pathway for those who have previously been on the GMC Register and on the NHS England National Performers List (NPL) and wish to return to General Practice after a career break, raising a family or time spent working abroad. It also supports the safe introduction of overseas GPs who have qualified outside the UK and have no previous NHS experience. Doctors will also be able to apply from overseas, before they either return or come to the UK. Individual returner GPs will receive a bursary of £2,300 on a monthly pro rata basis for GP practice placements. In addition, supervising practices will receive an annual fee of £8,000, again on a pro rata basis, for each scheme entrant, e.g. for those in the scheme for three months, practices will receive £2,000. The placements will be tailored to the needs of doctors to ensure they have the confidence and knowledge needed to be a GP. The scheme is part of the GP workforce 10 point action plan and standardises pre-existing regional schemes providing a consistent single point of contact, via the GP National Recruitment Office, to guide doctors through the system. GPC have produced this helpful summary.