What qualities should you develop...

As a locum GP, the ability to adapt to various clinical environments and patient demographics is essential.  It is a challenging but rewarding role.  To excel in this role and ensure high-quality patient care, there are specific key attributes that every locum GP should develop.

1. Adaptability & Flexibility

Locum GPs frequently work in different clinics, each with its own systems, workflows, and team dynamics. You will need to quickly understand new environments and adapt to unfamiliar protocols to ensure the continuity of patient care.  You will be facing new challenges and being flexible and open to different ways of working will be crucial to enable you to integrate into any environment.

Tip: Take time before starting a new placement to familiarise yourself with the clinic’s processes and patient demographics.

2. Strong Communication Skills

Clear and effective communication is a cornerstone of general practice, but it’s especially important for locum GPs. You’ll need to build trust and rapport quickly with both patients and colleagues. Active listening and concise explanations are essential for addressing patient concerns and working effectively within a multidisciplinary team, especially if you are only there for a short time.  It’s important to ask for help if there is something you are unclear about.  To maximise work opportunities, it’s important that you build rapport with the teams you are working with and leave a positive impression.

What else?

  • 3. Time Management
  • Time management is crucial to your success as a locum GP. As well as balancing patient consultations with administrative tasks you are also navigating new systems, new teams and unfamiliar processes. Effective time management ensures you maintain quality care while meeting clinic expectations. Being able to prioritise tasks and maintaining a structure are key.
    Tip: Having a good diary system to manage your bookings is essential as is a good invoicing system.

  • 4. Resilience and Stress Management
  • Work as a GP can be emotionally demanding but even more so as a locum. The transient nature of locum work can be stressful, with limited opportunities for establishing routine or familiarity. Developing resilience helps you manage the demands of the role and maintain your mental well-being.
    Tip: Practice mindfulness techniques and prioritize work-life balance. Consider connecting with other locum professionals for peer support.

  • 5. Clinical Competence and Decision-Making
  • As a locum GP, you’ll often work independently, making it crucial to stay up-to-date with medical guidelines and advancements. The ability to make sound clinical decisions under time constraints and with limited prior knowledge of the patient is essential. Continued education and staying upto date with medical advancements are crucial. Regularly review clinical guidelines, attend professional development courses, and maintain subscriptions to reputable medical journals.

    Cultural, Networking and Initiatives

    6. Cultural Competence

    Working as a locum often involves exposure to diverse patient populations. Understanding cultural differences and showing sensitivity to varied health beliefs and practices ensures inclusive and respectful care.

    7. Networking and Relationship-Building

    Success as a locum GP often hinges on maintaining good relationships with agencies, GP Practices and colleagues. A strong professional network can lead to repeat placements and positive references.  Always leave a good impression by being punctual, professional, and approachable.

    Tip: Stay in touch with colleagues and agencies through networking events or professional platforms like LinkedIn.

    8. Initiative

    As a locum GP, you won’t always have a manager closely guiding your work. Being proactive in seeking out resources, managing your schedule, and taking responsibility for continuous learning is essential.

    Tip: Set clear personal & career goals and track your progress to maintain motivation.

    Flexibility & Empathy

  • 9. Flexibility with Technology
  • With different clinics using various systems and diagnostic tools, locum GPs need to be tech-savvy. Quick learning and adaptability to new systems ensure smooth patient management. As a locum GP you can sometimes find the referral pathways aren’t always working with your log-in so ensure you let the practice know asap and clarify who to task items to in the mean time.
    Tip: Familiarise yourself with common software systems in advance or take online tutorials to enhance your proficiency.

  • 10. Empathy and Compassion
  • While locum work can sometimes feel transactional, maintaining a compassionate approach ensures high-quality care and patient satisfaction. Patients often value GPs who show genuine empathy, regardless of how long they’ve been with a clinic.

    In Conclusion

    Being a successful locum GP requires more than just clinical expertise. By developing adaptability, effective communication, and resilience, you can navigate the challenges of locum work while delivering excellent patient care. Investing in these skills not only enhances your professional growth but also ensures a rewarding and impactful career as a locum GP.

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    For more details or if you would like to discuss this with our team further, please get in touch with Thomas who would be happy to go through this with you. Contact us today to arrange a time to speak.

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