Join us as we explore the advancements in general practice data and analytics, as Ben sits down with Dr Nigel Fraser, Dr Mike Hearne, and Conor Price. They share their invaluable insights on the early initiatives of data sharing using EMIS and the importance of establishing trust among practices. Together, they unravel the complexities of standardising data to enhance collaborative healthcare and reflect on the journey from the initial phases to the sophisticated state of data utilisation today.
Listen in as they tackle the significant strides made in healthcare data management and the importance of standardised coding templates, the trust required in data sharing, and the role of mobile healthcare in addressing critical issues. They also discuss the creation of robust data management teams and the strategic deployment of data to advocate for primary care investments, all while recognising the undeniable power of data in steering healthcare improvements and fortifying practice support within the larger system..
Introduction (00:08)
Primary Care Analytics (01:57)
Comparing apples with apples (04:02)
LMC’s perspective.. (05:07)
The pro’s of providing the data.. (05:54)
The developments & benefits.. (07:06)
Using the data right (11:34)
Producing information.. (14:23)
Data analyst & beyond.. (16:55)
What does the data look like now? (18:36)
How does the data help? (21:28)
How to get in touch (23:02)
Contact Conor Price via email here & visit the Primary Care Analytics website here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
With general practice at a crossroads, Practice Index podcast regulars Robyn Clark and Claire Houston join Ben to assess the financial hurdles presented within the latest GP contract. The 2% funding increase is a drop in the ocean against towering inflation and the uptick in the national living wage could well see a situation whereby practices are unable to hire or replace departing staff, calling into question, once again, the issue of sustainability.
We consider newer directives linked to capacity and access such as telephony, online consultations, and care navigation systems and probe the effectiveness of the Integrated Care Board payments - and the Quality and Outcomes Framework - questioning their impact on an already stretched thin resource pool.
Don't miss this episode for a frank and insightful examination of the state of general practice right now, with our expert practice management panel guiding the conversation.
Introduction (00.:09)
Welcoming the panel (00:39)
Funding implications (00:52)
An unrealistic uplift against the economic reality (02:12)
Impact on practices (03:06)
Government response and continuing uncertainty (03:48)
Complications with budget-setting (05:38)
Advice from Clare when planning ahead (06:49)
Debating the QOF changes (07:53)
Changes related to vaccs and imms (09:46)
Scrapping the IIF in favour of capacity and access (10:32)
Achieving the 30% (12:33)
National extraction of demand data (14:25)
A new “registration solution” (17:03)
Merging the PCN DES spec and ARRS (17:55)
The future of general practice taskforce (20:48)
GP referendum (21:55)
Final thoughts (23:47)
The importance of standing together (24:40)
To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Listen in as we welcome back experts James Gransby from RSM UK and Robert McCartney from Hempsons for an insightful analysis of the upcoming 24/25 GP contract changes and the associated financial pressures. They tackle the stark realities practices are facing, including the modest wage increases and low inflation rate adjustments set against a backdrop of historical underfunding. They examine potential cost savings, opportunities for service expansion, and the balance between growth and maintaining a strong practice culture. Join us to also highlight the success of organic mergers and the concept of 'soft mergers' as a means to foster collaboration while preserving individual practice identity.
Introduction (00:09)
Reactions to the 24/25 contract.. (00:33)
Percentages used.. (01:42)
What’s new? (03:31)
Continuity of care (04:37)
Financial pressure on individual practices (05:35)
Section 96 (06:24)
Point of no return.. (07:01)
Funding during COVID.. (07:40)
Do practices need to merge? (08:54)
Economies of scale.. (14:15)
The need for a plan.. (15:10)
When does it become too big? (16:40)
Thinking about a merger? (19:01)
Merging organically.. (21:05)
Soft merging (23:12)
Getting in touch.. (23:52)
Contact Robert via email here & James via email here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Ben welcomes back podcast favourite, Sheinaz Stansfield, Quality Improvement Lead for Oxford Terrace and Rawling Road Medical Group. Sheinaz joins Ben to share her pioneering methods for workforce redesign in General Practice, which include a thorough examination of patient demand and the utilisation of tools to distinguish between activity and demand. Their discussion also looks into how to integrate new roles into healthcare teams, highlights the benefits of mentorship for unique roles, and the significant impact this can have on enhancing patient experiences and alleviating the pressure on clinicians. Join us and learn from Sheinaz’s tales of transformation, where a focus on demand and capacity has the power to revolutionise primary care..
Introduction (00:09)
Workforce redesign (00:39)
Measuring demand (01:56)
Findings & surprises.. (02:36)
Is demand greater than capacity? (04:04)
Increasing capacity.. (05:28)
Changing your workforce.. (07:58)
Identifying additional roles your Practice needs.. (09:19)
Workforce redesign principles.. (10:16)
Additional roles becoming part of the PCN.. (12:27)
Do you have a divide? (15:20)
Impacts on the GPs.. (16:15)
Key takeaways for listeners.. (17:05)
Advice.. (19:06)
Previous examples.. (20:56)
Making the most of an individual's skills.. (22:14)
Resources.. (23:06)
Listen to Ben & Sheinaz’s previous podcast episodes below:
Sheinaz Stansfield – social prescribing
Sheinaz Stansfield – Releasing time for care in Gateshead
Sheinaz Stansfield – The role of the frailty nurse in general practice
Sheinaz Stansfield – Better Health
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Unlock the secrets to compassionate healthcare as we join forces with Kay Keane, Shaun Jackson and Katherine Scott from Urban Village Medical Practice, to discuss primary care's pivotal role in supporting the homeless community. Together, they navigate the complex definition of homelessness, the responsibilities of local authorities, and how healthcare providers can assist individuals in this challenging system. This discussion is just the beginning of a series aimed at guiding practices in providing care to those experiencing homelessness. Discover the importance of using the practice's address for correspondence and learn how to maintain continuity of care for this population. This episode is designed to raise awareness and equip healthcare providers with the tools needed to offer empathetic and effective support to patients experiencing homelessness, a testament to the compassion and innovation that earned Urban Village Medical Practice its esteemed award.
Introduction (00:08)
What can we do to help people who are experiencing homelessness (00:52)
The plan.. (01:49)
Katherine's role.. (02:36)
What is homelessness? (03:32)
Why is it such an important issue for Primary Care? (04:53)
Support on offer.. (06:36)
Recognise the population (07:52)
Other organisations.. (10:22)
Noticing a difference.. (11:15)
What can practices do? (12:30)
Have the conversation with patients.. (15:55)
Getting it right.. (17:47)
Additional roles (19:26)
Homeless patients interacting with health services.. (20:48)
Supporting the patients.. (24:08)
Getting in touch.. (26:52)
Urban Village Medical Practice website & to find out more contact Kay Keane here.
Listen to the previous episode from Urban Village here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
In this week’s episode, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, Kay Keane and Claire Houston join Ben for a candid discussion on the financial challenges practices are facing. At the heart of their discussion lies the tension between the escalating costs of running a practice, including the forthcoming minimum wage hike, and the proposed 1.9% budget increase. Kay, Claire and Ben reflect on the squeeze this puts on profits and how it's driving a potential shift in the structure of General Practice. They look into the hard choices that lie ahead, and consider the implications of relying on additional roles over traditional GP-led models. They discuss what practices can do in face of such a financially challenging environment, and offer practical tips for those who are struggling. Tune in to hear more about the creative strategies practices are employing to navigate funding challenges and how this might shape the future of General Practice.
Introduction (00:09)
Practice finances (00:50)
Claire’s thoughts.. (01:58)
The 1.9% offer (03:54)
Claire & Kay’s thoughts regarding the offer? (04:38)
How are Practices make ends meet? (07:13)
What kind of uplift in income is possible for Practices? (09:46)
PCN income.. (12:32)
The challenges.. (14:22)
Working together.. (16:08)
Additional roles.. (16:51)
Making savings by increasing size.. (22:52)
Resources & information.. (25:08)
To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Tim Rigg & Jessie Teggin join Ben to discuss ‘Out in the Field’, a provider of retreats for NHS staff. This episode looks into the transformative journey of healthcare staff towards holistic wellbeing, Jessie and Tim share information about the unique retreats that are aimed at nurturing the wellbeing of healthcare professionals, empowering them to unwind, rejuvenate, along with creating stronger connections within their teams. Join us to learn more about the retreats, and how NHS staff are embracing them..
Introduction (00:09)
Out in the field (01:21)
Forest bathing (05:30)
Why did you decide on retreats for your primary care team? (08:53)
Staff's thoughts.. (12:51)
How did the retreat run? (14:18)
What difference did it make to staff.. (18:27)
Are there more sessions to come? (21:02)
Jessie’s thoughts on the day.. (21:38)
How to find out more.. (24:45)
Visit the ‘Out in the Field’ website here & ‘The Quadrangle’ here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Join Andy and Gandhi from eGPLearning and Tara Humphrey for something different this week, as our very own Ben joined eGPLearning’s live discussion to explore what is next for PCNs. They look into the future of General Practice, GP contract negotiations and the evolution of patient care. They navigate through the challenges of recruitment, resource allocation, and a modest funding uplift set against rising inflation. They also share information for the upcoming live event in Nottingham, where success stories and the resilience of healthcare professionals will take centre stage.
Introduction to PCN Plus (00:09)
Introduction (00:31)
The latest video from Katie.. (01:41)
Contract negotiations.. (03:35)
GPs in ARRS roles (06:37)
Comments from live listeners (11:34)
1.9% uplift (12:24)
Further comments from live listeners.. (18:37)
Joining the PCN Plus conference (20:38)
Listen to the full live streamed episode of ‘What is next for PCNs with PCN Plus’ here.
Register for the PCN Plus conference on Wednesday 17th April here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
In this episode of the podcast, we look into the world of total triage with Pete Woodward, from Cheadle Medical Practice. Join us as we learn how tailored questionnaires and advanced triage tools have led to a significant leap in diagnosis accuracy and patient satisfaction. Discover the secrets behind their efficient triage process, The Human Touch, which not only heightened patient contentment but also optimised the staff's schedule, ensuring availability for urgent cases. This episode is packed with valuable information, tune in to transform your understanding of patient care and triage in the modern medical environment.
Introduction (00:09)
Pete’s role.. (00:35)
The Human Touch (00:47)
Struggling with demand (01:40)
Face to face demand (02:07)
What changes were made? (02:55)
What came next.. (03:49)
Creating a model.. (04:26)
Identifying areas.. (05:33)
Patient questionnaires.. (06:17)
Next steps.. (06:45)
The role of the reception team.. (07:29)
Decision pathway (08:30)
Impact of the changes.. (08:41)
Reduction of phone calls (09:17)
How long did it take to see a reduction? (09:46)
Patient feedback (10:16)
Hurdles the practice overcame.. (10:45)
Creating capacity (11:48)
Protecting appointments (13:54)
The situation now.. (14:43)
Reacting to changes (15:38)
What’s next? (16:14)
Supporting other practices (17:22)
Advice for getting people onboard.. (19:57)
Contacting Pete (21:02)
More about ‘The Human Touch’ (21:51)
To contact Pete directly, please contact him by email here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Join us this week to discuss the new CQC revamped Practice Inspection Framework, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, with panel regular Robyn Clark & manager partner of a GP practice in North London, Rathai Thevananth. This essential episode of our podcast provides a comprehensive breakdown of the significant changes affecting healthcare practices. Gain an in-depth understanding of the new quality statements and learn how the updated numerical scoring system will enhance self-assessment and benchmarking for your practice. With Rathai’s insights, we look into how you can prepare for a CQC visit, we also share practical strategies to achieve and maintain excellence. From organising documentation to analysing patient feedback and improving accountability, this episode is packed with actionable advice to ensure your healthcare practice not only meets but exceeds inspection standards.
Introduction (00:09)
New CQC framework.. (01:35)
The biggest difference? (02:16)
Making it easier for practices.. (02:42)
Is there a change to the ratings? (03:24)
Final scoring (03:53)
Robyn’s thoughts.. (04:31)
Evidence required.. (05:55)
How is the rollout going? (06:58)
Robyn’s practice visit.. (08:20)
Feedback so far.. (10:20)
Frequency of visits (11:12)
Tips for the CQC inspection (12:08)
Common struggle areas.. (14:04)
Common mistakes.. (15:57)
Organisation.. (17:23)
Does Robyn feel ready? (18:34)
What makes a practice ‘outstanding’? (20:01)
Best places to get information.. (21:02)
Further recommendations (21:37)
To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Jacob Haddad, co-founder of Accurx, returns to our podcast to discuss Accurx’s latest report. With a focus on total triage and its impact on the healthcare delivery model, we uncover a system where appointments are a last resort, leading to increased efficiency and a transformative patient experience. The conversation pivots to the day-to-day challenges and triumphs of general practices that are pioneering this approach. You'll hear firsthand accounts of how clinics grapple with increased workloads and leverage the expertise of senior GPs to ensure a successful transition. By highlighting the community of practices that have already embraced these changes, we invite listeners to join a network of forward-thinkers revolutionising patient care. So, if you're a healthcare professional ready to learn from the best, or simply a curious mind intrigued by the future of healthcare, this episode is your gateway to an evolving world where change is not just expected, it's embraced.
Introduction (00:09)
Staying relevant.. (00:32)
Digital transformation (01:16)
The report.. (01:57)
The changes.. (03:09)
Making it successful (03:53)
The maths.. (08:26)
Putting the changes into motion.. (11:10)
Who to put in charge of triage? (12:45)
How did Jacob research this? (14:59)
Plan for Practices.. (16:16)
Modern General Practice.. (18:06)
Practices making the change together.. (19:45)
Accessing the report & finding support .. (21:39)
Download the Accurx report: a blueprint for recovering access here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
This episode is brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, this week we focus on the topic of annual leave. Ben is joined by Claire Hoston and Robyn Clark to tackle the topic of managing annual leave in general practice. Navigating the peaks of holiday seasons can be a tumultuous affair in any workplace, but it's especially challenging in healthcare settings where patients need surge following breaks like Christmas and school holidays. They share their strategies for equitable leave distribution, such as annual planning meetings for clinical staff and specific rules for management teams. The conversation reveals how crucial a clear leave policy is for maintaining harmony and ensuring everyone gets a chance to recharge. Whether you're a practice manager or a team member trying to navigate your leave schedule, this episode offers insights and solutions for managing this critical aspect of workplace well-being.
Introduction & annual leave (00:08)
Managing annual leave (03:06)
Annual planning meeting.. (04:25)
Proactive approach about staff taking leave (05:41)
Managing leave expectations.. (07:00)
Carrying over leave.. (07:59)
The importance of people taking leave in the year? (08:50)
Practice Managers difficulty taking annual leave (10:28)
Work backlog.. (11:33)
Time off in lieu (12:10)
The development of the HR package (13:43)
Managing cultural balance.. (14:55)
Annual leave allowance.. (16:28)
Best practice when setting annual leave levels? (17:36)
Challenges of recruitment? (19:24)
Annual leave policies or practices recommended to people listening? (20:44)
To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
We're thrilled to welcome the inspiring Dr. Helen Kingston, a GP and senior partner at Frome Medical Practice, who shares with us her team's unique and effective approach to healthcare that prioritises sustainability. Their journey to green healthcare is quite remarkable, from integrating social prescribing into medical practice to being the first practice to receive the prestigious RCGP Green Impact Gold Plus Award. Ben & Helen explore the extensive collaborative work happening on a community level. And rounding it all off, Helen shares her thoughts on the importance of motivation and the role of networks like the Greener Practice Network in driving sustainability in general practice. Each bit of the episode is packed with valuable insights and practical takeaways on fostering sustainable healthcare practices.
Introduction (0:08)
How it all started (0:40)
Social prescribers prior to PCN’s? (1:52)
Are social subscribers integrated? (2:59)
Capturing the impacts.. (4:37)
RCGP Green Impact Gold Plus Award.. (5:49)
Is team involvement key? (8:00)
Trying something outside Practice with the local community.... (10:42)
What is a community connector? (12:26)
Are they staff? (13:44)
How does it work? (14:05)
Evolution of the patient participation groups? (14:56)
The project.. (15:19)
Measuring the impact of the programme.. (17:34)
Helen’s view on sustainability.. (19:02)
Reflections on collaborative working? (19:48)
Working together.. (21:45)
What’s next? (22:24)
Any advice for people who want to do something in their Practice? (23:27)
Access The UK's primary care sustainability network, Greener Practice here and the toolkit here
Listen back to the previous episode: Terry Kemple, Sustainable general practice here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Joining Ben to discuss how they managed to establish a PCN hub in their area is Dr Aravinth Balachandran, clinical director at Folkestone, Hythe and Rural PCN, Andy Gove, digital transformation manager at the same PCN & Adriana Jimenez, Primary Care Transformation Senior Innovation Access Lead, all with first hand experience in establishing a PCN hub. With the discussion rooted in their experiences, they reflect on the conception of the hub idea and its co-design with practices, demonstrating the importance of collaboration, trust, and relationship-building between practices. The conversation explores the positive effects of online consultations, improved response times, and better access to patient records. In essence, the PCN hub has brought about happier practices and positive feedback from patients.. Don't miss out on these exclusive insights and resources..
Introduction (0:09)
Establishing a PCN Hub.. (01:14)
Did you have a history of collaborative working across the practices? (03:23)
How did you get to a hub as a solution? (03:55)
What is a hub? (05:50)
Initial intentions for the hub.. (06:46)
Enhanced access funding.. (08:52)
Andy’s involvement.. (09:30)
What were the key gaps that you identified? (11:24)
Is all the work fully integrated with the GP records in their own practices? (13:28)
Transforming the digital infrastructure.. (14:53)
Adriana’s involvement.. (15:43)
Resolving the estates issue.. (17:11)
Funding.. (18:30)
Resolving governance issues.. 19:27
Impact the hub has had so far (20:21)
How do you see the hub developer in the future? (24:24)
Accessing further information.. (26:24)
Access the blueprint materials and resources here.
If you’re a PCN embarking on a similar project and would like to get in touch, email the Folkestone, Hythe and Rural PCN leadership team here.
For more information about how the NHS England South East regional office supported this project, please email Adriana Jimenez, Primary Care Transformation Senior Innovation Access Lead, NHS England here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Join us this week, as we navigate the complexities of the new provider selection regime and what it means for general practice with our guest, Ross Clark, a partner at Hemsons. The new provider selection regime, he explains, will allow integrated care boards to award contracts to providers including PCNs, GP provider companies, and federations without a competitive procurement process. Ross discusses the concept of direct award and the selection of suitable providers, which may streamline the merger and acquisition of practices. However, he also explores how these changes may complicate matters for commissioners wanting to switch providers. Alongside this, we discuss exceptions to these processes and their applicability in particular situations. This episode offers invaluable insights on how the new regime will impact practices, PCNs and federations..
Introduction (0:09)
What is the Provider Selection Regime? (1:19)
Thoughts behind the change.. (5:06)
What does this mean in practice? (7:08)
Being awarded the ‘Most Suitable Provider’.. (10:11)
When an APMS contract comes to an end.. (10:41)
Are we starting to see contracts being directly awarded to PCNs? (11:44)
Exceptions to these rules.. (14:01)
Encouraging mergers and PCN level services.. (15:10)
Can the regime work the other way? (16:27)
Impact on GP federations.. (19:27)
A federation of federations.. (21:04)
NHS Guidance updates.. (23:36)
Subcontracting contracts.. (24:21)
Timescales for the Provider Selection Regime.. (26:48)
Access The New Provider Selection Regime here and the Provider Selection Regime Guidance here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
This episode is brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, this week we focus on the topic of improving the support that Practices and PCNs can give to care homes. Ben is joined by Lisa Davis, who is the PCN clinical lead for enhanced health and care homes, and Lucy Jones, who is the PCN manager, both at HMG PCN in Hereford. They shed light on how the Living Well in Later Life event has not only reinforced their relationship with care homes but also greatly enhanced their outreach. As they continue their journey in strengthening partnerships, they extend an open invitation to those who are keen to learn and build connections. Join us as we unpack these insights and experiences for a more integrated and improved support for care homes..
Introduction (0:09)
Separation between Practice and PCNs (01:54)
Living Well in Later Life.. (02:42)
Designed for clinical teams working in care homes.. (03:24)
What services are in place already? (03:57)
Who was the conference for? (04:30)
Events best bits.. (05:37)
Results from the conference.. (06:00)
Better interaction.. (06:24)
Role of the care coordinators (06:56)
Do care homes feel supported? (07:34)
Next steps.. (07:57)
Structured learning time.. (08:21)
Expanding the event.. (08:51)
Would you recommend a similar event to others? (09:43)
Ward rounds within care homes (09:59)
GP’s in care homes (10:31)
Measuring the outcomes (10:55)
Who to contact? (11:43)
Advice for those planning a similar event (12:00)
When to start planning.. (13:34)
Repeating the event.. (13:54)
How to get in touch (14:44)
To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
In this episode, Ben is joined by the individuals from Venn Health and People Wellbeing: James Davies, Alasdair Everest-Ford, and Vicky Fytche. Venn Health, an independent agency specialising in problem-solving for the health and care sector, has recently collaborated with People Wellbeing, a provider focused on creating healthier environments and staff wellbeing. Together, they are dedicated to meeting the needs and providing support for Practices & PCN’s through Wellbeing interventions. The conversation delves into the crucial aspects of cultivating a positive culture and effective management behaviour, essential for establishing a sustainable wellbeing environment in the ever-evolving landscape of General Practice. The discussion covers the significant pressures faced by GP Partners and Practice Managers, challenges in staff retention, the importance of flexible working, and insights into The Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF)..
Venn Health introduction (0:09)
People Wellbeing introduction (1:49)
Wellbeing within General Practice (3:18)
GP Partners & Practice Managers pressures.. (4:12)
Staff retainment (5:23)
Changes from the pandemic.. (7:02)
Benefits of a Wellbeing Provider? (7:45)
Helpful or a criticism? (9:58)
Motivations for staff.. (10:42)
Findings so far.. (11:52)
The Quality and Outcomes Framework (13:16)
Venn Health & People Wellbeing collaboration.. (14:08)
The Wellbeing Intervention.. (15:42)
Next steps.. (17:24)
Vell Health’s role.. (18:29)
Getting in touch (19:19)
Visit the Staff Wellbeing Guide for NHS General Practice and PCN Teams here.
To access the People Wellbeing Website click here and for Venn Health here.
Contact a workforce wellbeing specialist at People Wellbeing by email or contact Venn Health directly via email.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
In this episode, Ben and Donal discuss the fascinating world of Metabolic Health. Our special guest, Donal Collins, generously takes us on a journey through his own experience with type 2 diabetes, illustrating his remarkable transformation. Donal elaborates on the modifications he implemented, the exceptional results he attained, and how he turned his personal journey into inspiration for others. They discuss the concept of treating disease by promoting good health and addressing their root causes, such as using food as a treatment. Donal provides insights into the adjustments he made in his role as a practising GP and how his priorities have shifted. He also sheds light on the interventions that have been put into action and the remarkable outcomes achieved thus far. Donal offers a glimpse into his future endeavours and outlines his focus for the upcoming years.
Introduction (0:09)
Donal’s journey.. (0:52)
Changes that were made.. (5:09)
How did you get to what you’re doing now? (5:52)
Changes Donal made as a practising GP.. (7:23)
Donal’s change of career.. (8:10)
The intervention.. (10:47)
Which patients are your focus? (11:42)
Initiating the intervention.. (12:52)
Success creating more participants.. (14:23)
What’s next for Donal? (15:17)
Any roadblocks? (16:10)
Getting in touch.. (18:10)
Making a difference.. (18:45)
Contact Donal Collins via email here, via twitter here or access his linkedin here. To Access the study click here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Ben welcomes two special guests, Minal Bakhai and Sheinaz Stansfield, to discuss the General Practice Improvement Programme. Minal delves into the details of GPIP and elaborates on the support it offers to PCNs and Practices. Sheinaz shares her personal experiences with the programme and discusses the transformative impact of data and support on PCNs and Practices. The episode also unveils key insights gained thus far, valuable advice for moving forward, and future programme plans. Discover who can benefit from this program and learn how to get involved in GPIP..
Introduction & why the programmes been introduced (0:09)
Introducing modern General Practice.. (3:05)
Information about the programme.. (4:47)
How much funding for practices? (6:45)
Sheinaz’ support in the programme.. (7:39)
Telephony data (9:23)
What difference were you able to make? (10:14)
Staffing changes due to data.. (11:15)
Does the Practice feel different? (12:09)
Supporting GPIP implementation across the PCN.. (12:49)
What is failure demand? (14:43)
Sharing resources throughout PCN’s (15:29)
Learnings so far & advice for moving forward.. (16:14)
Disconnect between PCN’s and Practices.. (17:56)
Plans for the programme.. (18:52)
Signing up to GPIP.. (20:07)
Is this for everyone? (21:13)
Choosing the support for you.. (21:50)
Visit the National General Practice Improvement Programme here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
In this episode Ben reunites with NHS pensions expert Paul Gordon to explore recent changes to the NHS pension scheme. Paul last joined us in March 2023, they start by revisiting their previous discussion and the scheme's updates. Paul shares the positive changes, and the popularity around them, as well as the associated restrictions. He provides insightful details, including calculations and their impact on individuals' pension plans. Paul also offers a glimpse into the future- hoping for an increased clarity in navigating the complicated topic.
Introduction (0:09)
Recap from March 2023.. (0:35)
24 hour retirement changes.. (1:33)
What’s different now? (2:55)
Age restrictions.. (3:32)
A rise in partial retirements.. (4:24)
Working less, earning more (5:35)
Changes to the annual allowance.. (6:14)
Better rate of growth for McCloud period.. (11:01)
Annual allowance growth charge.. (11:56)
Lifetime allowance being abolished.. (13:11)
Accessing your pension information.. (15:05)
Checking your pension information.. (17:08)
Making a decision (19:02)
Decision at the point of retirement.. (21:21)
Contact details (23:13)
Get in touch with Paul via email here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Back by popular demand, we're excited to welcome back Naj Seedat and Andy Pow for another insightful episode.The topic of conversation has come to light due to an ICB that awarded what was an APMS contract, converted to a GMS contract to a PCN, Naj and Andy share their valuable insights and perspectives on this matter. Naj also shares his experience with having both APMS and GMS practices within his patch, shedding light on the approaches they've adopted. The three of them engage in a conversation about the potential future of APMS contracts, the crucial issue of General Practice funding, and their visions for what lies ahead in this ever-evolving landscape.
Introduction (0:09)
Independent Contractor Model (1:16)
Naj’s thoughts.. (2:44)
APMs contract reviews.. (4:58)
The end for APMS contracts? (6:43)
Andy’s thoughts.. (9:09)
How do PCN’s hold a GMS contract? (10:10)
Ben's thoughts on the future for integration? (12:40)
Naj & Andy’s salaries & integration thoughts... (15:40)
Shift in the funding.. (18:32)
Distribution of funding.. (19:29)
PCN’s are here to stay.. (21:28)
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
In this week's episode we have the pleasure of welcoming back Hussain Gandhi, for the fifth year running as a PCN Clinical Director. During the conversation, Gandhi reflects on his time as a Clinical Director, sharing both the achievements and the challenges his PCN has encountered. Gandhi and Ben engage in a discussion about the difficulties associated with adapting to the changes of the IIF, the issues PCNs are currently facing, and challenges such as retention due to financial uncertainty. Gandhi also presents his vision for a ‘hub’ and discusses the topic of additional roles, specifically Physician Associates. They talk through the implications of contractual changes and funding issues which have posed significant challenges for practices and PCNs. Finally, Gandhi shares his reflections on the past four to five years of his role as a PCN Clinical Director.
Introduction (0:09)
Gandhi’s PCN.. (0:45)
The PCN’s biggest achievements (1:19)
Investment and Impact Fund criteria (1:48)
The PCN’s ‘lessons learned’ (2:52)
Funding changes.. (3:38)
Challenges as a PCN.. (4:13)
Uncertainty.. (5:09)
Additional roles.. (7:38)
Supporting additional roles.. (9:18)
Further challenges as a PCN.. (10:45)
Bureaucracy.. (11:23)
The hub.. (12:06)
The hub's staffing.. (13:08)
Effects of contractual change (13:32)
Funding issues within practices and PCN’s.. (15:01)
Disengagement within practices.. (17:04)
Active planning for the future.. (18:29)
Is Gandhi staying? (19:39)
Impact of PCN’s on General Practice.. (20:16)
How to move forward? (21:37)
PCN’s sustainability in the future.. (23:00)
Gandhi’s reflections over the last 4 to 5 years.. (24:10)
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
In today's episode, Ben is joined by James Catton, Physician Associate in General Practice, host of the Physician Associate Podcast and a PA Ambassador. Together, they deep dive into the role and responsibilities of a PA Ambassador, and discuss James' own creation, The Physician Associate Podcast. Throughout their conversation, James and Ben explore the challenges Physician Associates are currently facing and provide insights into the reasons behind this complex topic. They also offer valuable guidance on how to support PA's effectively and maximise their contributions within practices. James generously shares resources to assist individuals during these challenging times.
Introduction (0:09)
The role of a Physician Ambassador (0:21)
The Physician Associate Podcast (1:25)
Physician Associate listeners (2:16)
Challenging time for Physician Associates.. (3:03)
Factors contributing to the challenging time for PA's (3:31)
PA’s being targeted.. (4:41)
Numbers of PA’s working in General Practice? (6:26)
PA’s experiences so far within General Practice? (7:40)
What would be helpful? (8:45)
Additional roles.. (9:36)
What next? (11:13)
Essential support PA's Require (11:47)
Building a supportive Network within PCN's (13:13)
Emphasising the value of teamwork (14:18)
Enhancing support for PA's working alone (15:35)
Looking to the future.. (15:59)
Resources for PA’s & for supporting PA’s.. (17:53)
Listen to ‘The Physician Associate Podcast’ here, access ‘The PA+PER Magazine’ here, & ‘The Faculty of Physician Associates’ (FPA) here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Returning to the podcast this week is Tara Humphrey, Managing Director of THC. Tara joins Ben to discuss the current priorities of PCNs. Tara shares her insights into the most significant challenges PCNs are currently facing, touching upon various issues and tensions within these networks. Tara emphasises the importance of interactions within PCNs and how this directly impacts the trust levels among participating practices. The discussion also revolves around the opportunity PCNs have to collaborate, learn from each other, and provide support for one another, all while recognising that all practices share a common goal and are part of the same team. Tara outlines her expectations regarding the infrastructure needed to support PCN staff effectively. The conversation finishes on the topic of security within PCN roles and what steps networks can take now ready for the future.
Introduction (0:09)
Nomination for the 'Great British Business Women's Awards' (0:37)
Identifying the most biggest challenges faced by PCNs now (1:00)
Collaboration issues (1:41)
Challenges and issues within PCNs (2:04)
Tensions within the networks (2:58)
Repairing relationships (4:08)
Issues related to funding (6:22)
Trust within practices (7:23)
The correlation between trust and interactions (8:47)
Inattention to results (10:26)
PCNs adapting to the change of ‘access requirements’ (11:30)
The value of learning from each other (12:31)
PCN leaders (13:42)
Infrastructure to support staff (14:33)
What infrastructure works best? (16:18)
Security concerns within roles (16:59)
Strategies for tackling uncertainty (18:02)
Recommended steps to take now (19:15)
The current reality (20:33)
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.
Find out more about Tara and the work she does via her website.
It was about time we welcomed back Dr Rachel Morris, speaker, host of ‘You Are Not a Frog’ podcast, GP, Coach and creator of the Shapes Toolkit Resilience Training Programme for doctors and other professionals. In this episode Rachel generously imparts invaluable insights into the importance of establishing professional boundaries, sheds light on the treatment of general practice, and offers guidance on navigating the uncertain times that general practice is facing. Rachel emphasises the crucial need for a strong support system and kindly shares advice on coping with times of uncertainty.
Introduction & Rachels recent work (0:09)
Professional boundaries.. (0:58)
The art of saying ‘no’.. (3:18)
How General Practice is being treated.. (7:21)
System of support.. (11:03)
QI wellbeing resources.. (12:53)
The impact of virtual working on wellbeing..(15:11)
Face to face vs online.. (17:16)
Managing uncertainty.. (17:58)
Zone of power.. (22:30)
Getting in touch with Rachel.. (24:21)
Find out more about the QI Wellbeing QoF Toolkit and the Work Well Webinar Series here. You can also tune in to the 'You Are Not a Frog' podcast, or get in touch with Rachel via email here.
For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.