Bristol Practice Management Conference - key takeaways
On 12 September we welcomed Partners and Practice Managers from across England to our 2024 Practice Management Conference at We The Curious in Bristol. Here are the key takeaways from the discussions.
Potential for new property developments
In recent years, the development of GP premises has stalled due to rising construction costs, interest rate increases and loan affordability. David King from Lloyds Bank Plc spoke of the potential for property developments to be reinvigorated with loan serviceability becoming more affordable.
This a positive step in the right direction for many GP premises whose premises require modernizing and expansion to account for the growing demand on GP Practices.
Experiences from GP Practices
A range of Partners and Practice Managers provided overviews of their experiences including the challenges they faced during the Covid-19 Pandemic. The speakers explored the positives that have flowed from the necessary utilisation of technology including online appointment booking and integrating the use of video and telephone appointments alongside traditional in-person appointments.
Discussions also focused on the challenges of partner recruitment with many citing the financial pressures and work life balance acting as a deterrent for younger GPs. Some of the practices noted the potential for seeking partners outside of GPs including utilising practice managers and other colleagues, including pharmacists and nurses who are invested in the practice business.
The role of Primary Care Networks (PCNs), GP Federations and Integrated Care Board (ICB)
Encouraging collaboration with PCNs and GP Federations to support practices was another important focus allowing shared resources and developing community health services. PCNs and GP Federations can assist with strategic support for practices, administrative burdens and public outlook on GP Practices.
Shane Devlin from the BNSSG ICB gave a positive talk and acknowledged the struggles faced by GP Practices and gave a reassuring outlook on the role of the ICB in supporting primary care.
Workshops
The conference was a positive day of GP Practices sharing their experiences in both struggles and positive outcomes. Afternoon workshops offered the opportunity for Partners and Practice Managers to discuss questions and issues with representatives from Osmond Tricks, Lentells and One Care. This involved reviewing financial systems and challenges practices are facing with property valuations and rent reimbursement. The day ended on a positive note with a talk from comedian and former GP, Dr Phil Hammond.
We would like to extend our thanks to those who attended and spoke at the conference and added to an interesting and informative day.
We look forward to welcoming delegates from Welsh GP Practices at our Welsh Practice Management Conference on 6 November 2024 with venues in Cardiff, North Wales and Machynlleth. Book your place now.