GP Pause
The GP Pause Programme
GP Pause is a novel programme supporting GPs and practice teams when a GP takes a period of planned/unplanned extended leave but are still on the GMC GP register and England Medical Performer’s list. It is run through The Hub Plus and offers this support to all GPs and practices in Derbyshire. GP Pause provides guidance and resources for GPs and practices for periods of leave lasting 2 weeks or more to ensure both parties feel supported in planning ‘pauses’ in careers, and in planning a smooth transition when returning to work.
If you'd like to view the full GP Pause Suppoort Document by Dr. Elise Brog and amended by Dr Sheila Owusu, please click here.
'Planning’ The Pause
Unplanned Pause
- The practice sends a letter to the GP (See Document 1: Unplanned leave letter for GP Practice)
- The GP informs the GP Pause Programme of the break as soon as they can
Planned Pause
- The GP contacts GP Pause - to inform them of their planned pause
- The GP discusses the GP Pause Planning Form with either the practice manager or GP partner. The form is available either through the website or emailed to them by the Hub Plus). See Document 2: Planning your pause form
The GP completes the form and emails it back to the GP Pause program (ddlmc.thehubplus@nhs.net
The Pause
GPs receive information about available support, e.g. mentoring and remote learning opportunities from The GP Pause website and via emails from the GP Pause Programme.
Play
- Inform the Hub Plus GP Pause Team of your planned return date.
- Complete the Document 3: ‘Pressing Play’ form.
- Discuss the form with your practice to plan a supported return to work.
Ponder
Reflect on your ‘Pause’ by completing the feedback survey from the GP Pause team, to ensure it continues to improve and grow!
‘Planning’ the Pause
We would recommend that the GP discusses their career break (for any reason e.g. maternity or paternity leave, adoption leave, caring leave etc.) at an early stage. Obviously, some periods of extended leave will be unexpected, so the discussion should follow as soon as reasonable.
WHY: The form is to allow consideration and discussion of what the GP might find helpful during their time off e.g. how much contact they would like with the practice, when they might like to discuss their return rota and what might be useful on return. Obviously, these things may change during the break, but it can be advantageous to start considering these things early. It is also essential for the practice in terms of forward planning if you expect there to be any significant changes e.g. a reduction in the number of sessions on return.
WHEN: We would advise discussing this as early as possible by completing the Document 2: Planning your pause form at least 6 weeks prior to the ‘Pause’ beginning.
WHO: The form is to be completed by the GP, in discussion with a member of the practice team, e.g. the practice manager, and/or GP Partner. This does not have to be face to face.
WHERE: When the form is completed, we would advise a copy to be kept by the GP, the practice team and would also ask that a copy is sent to the GP Pause Programme. The completed form can be emailed to ddlmc.thehubplus@nhs.net
Top Tips on Planning Your Return to Work
- Ensure you have completed the ‘Pressing Play After Your Pause’ paperwork with the practice.
- Think about organising KIT days early and discuss payment.
- Think about logistics e.g. carer responsibilities and plans in case of emergency. Who are your emergency ports of call should you need them?
- If eligible, arrange KIT days early and discuss payment.
- Make sure to think about any educational needs you may have and discuss how these could be addressed e.g. The Hub Plus Education Hub or First 5 Derbyshire resources, RCGP webinars etc.
- Ensure you feel happy with your rota on return and ensure, if you do have issues when you start, that you know who you would discuss these with.
Appendices
We would recommend that you, the GP, discusses your planned career break (for any reason e.g. maternity or paternity leave, adoption leave, caring leave etc.) at an early stage. This form is to allow consideration and discussion of what you might find helpful during your time off.
Document 1: Unplanned leave letter for GP Practice
This letter is to be sent to the GP on unplanned leave, by the practice team. Please edit or adjust as appropriate:
Dear Dr………
We are so sorry that you are unwell/to hear……… . We wish to offer you our condolences and support.
We want you to know that we are thinking of you.
Whenever you feel you want to discuss a supported return to work, please let us know.
If you (or we can do this for you) would like to inform the ‘GP Pause Programme’ at The hub plus. They will be able to email you with other support services available.
……. Medical Practice.
Document 2: ‘Planning your Pause’ - Form
Document 3: ‘Pressing Play’ - Form
Document 4: ‘Planning your Pause’ - as a locum
Document 5: ‘Pressing Play’ - as a Locum
Review of the GP Pause Programme
Now you are back working please complete the below survey and let us know how you found the GP Pause resources and planning aides