Question 1

How much do salaried GPs earn in the NHS?

Accepted Answer

In England, the BMA salaried GP model contract recommends a minimum full-time equivalent salary of £78,699 for 2026/27. Actual pay depends on the number of sessions, seniority, nation, and whether the practice or PCN offers supplements for extended hours, teaching, or clinical lead responsibilities. Inner London practices typically offer higher rates. Locum GPs are paid per session, with day rates varying by region and notice period.

Question 2

What is the difference between a salaried GP and a partner?

Accepted Answer

Salaried GPs are employees of the practice, working agreed sessions for a fixed salary with NHS pension access and employment protections. Partners are self-employed, sharing the profits and risks of running the practice. Partners typically earn more but carry financial liability for premises, staff, and contracts. Salaried roles suit those who want clinical work without business management, while partnerships suit those who want to shape how a practice runs.

Question 3

Can international medical graduates work as GPs in the NHS?

Accepted Answer

Yes. IMGs need GMC registration, the CEGPR (Certificate of Eligibility for GP Registration) or completion of UK GP training, English language evidence (IELTS/OET), and inclusion on the GP performers list. Many practices offer visa sponsorship for salaried posts. The CEGPR route requires portfolio evidence of equivalent training and usually takes 6-12 months to process through the RCGP.

Question 4

What does a typical GP working week look like?

Accepted Answer

A full-time salaried GP works eight or nine clinical sessions per week (half-days), with one session allocated for administration, training, or practice development. Each clinical session typically involves 15-20 patient consultations lasting 10-15 minutes. Many GPs work part-time, choosing between three and six sessions. Some practices offer a mix of face-to-face and remote consulting.

Question 5

What career options exist beyond standard GP practice?

Accepted Answer

GPs can take on extended roles including GP with Extended Role (GPwER) in dermatology, MSK, or minor surgery. Other options include clinical director of a primary care network, medical educator or GP trainer, portfolio careers combining practice with urgent care, prison healthcare, or out-of-hours work, and academic GP research positions. Some GPs also pursue management roles within integrated care boards.

Question 6

How do GP jobs differ from hospital doctor posts?

Accepted Answer

GP posts are community-based, managing undifferentiated presentations across all ages without the support structures of a hospital ward team. GPs make autonomous decisions about investigation, referral, and management with limited access to point-of-care diagnostics. The pay structure is different (BMA model contract rather than Agenda for Change or medical pay scales), and working hours are typically more regular than hospital rotas, though out-of-hours commitments vary.

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