Welsh Practice Management Conference 2024 - A Review
On 6 November we welcomed Practice Managers and GPs from across Wales to our 2024 Welsh Practice Management Conference at two venues, in Cardiff and North Wales. Here's what we found.
Growth, development and the future
A running theme throughout the conference was that of the potential for growth and development. David Clarke gave an interesting insight into the challenges and benefits of running a "super partnership", giving many practice managers something to think about in terms of viability, considering the increasing number of practice mergers and potential economic difficulties to come with the new budget and increase in national insurance contributions.
Technological advances were also considered, with use of AI and computerised receptionists presented as a solution to increasing patient demands and strain on administrative staff. The current move to the EMIS system and potential for electronic prescriptions in the future was also discussed - a positive step forward for primary care in Wales.
Hopes and goals
There was a strong vision across both conference sites, with the consensus being that primary care and preventative healthcare are essential for improving the nation's health, and that an increase in resources being directed to primary care could support this.
Other goals for the future were discussed by Dr Esther Lomas regarding HEIW, with a strong view to investing in excellent training of Welsh primary care staff, developing a supportive culture in NHS Wales and encouraging use of the Welsh language, amongst other key aims.
There were also discussions regarding GPC Wales' recent unanimous refusal of the Sennedd's final contract offer.
Workshops
There was a strong sense of community at the conference, with delegates sharing their experiences - both positive and challenging - and offering advice and support to one another. The afternoon workshops offered the opportunity to hear from and ask questions of representatives from Narrow Quay HR, Azets and IGPM, covering key matters such as:
- How changes to employment law under the new Employment Rights Bill will affect practices (for more information about how this bill may affect you, please click here)
- Tax issues and how to address them
- Advice on managing social media communications
The closing talk from comedian and former GP, Dr Phil Hammond, ended an overall positive day on an upbeat note.
We would like to extend our thanks to all those who attended and spoke at the conference, as well as those running stands, for contributing to such an informative event.
If you would like to know more about our annual practice management conferences, please contact Kirsten Brown in our Healthcare team on 0117 314 5355, or complete the form below.