Understanding the Different Types of GPs in the UK – Why Salaried GPs Stand Out
January 29, 2025
General Practitioners (GPs) play a crucial role in the UK healthcare system, providing frontline care to millions of patients. However, not all GPs work in the same capacity. There are several types of GPs, each with different roles, responsibilities, and career structures. Among them, Salaried GPs stand out as a stable and rewarding career choice.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of GPs in the UK and highlight why becoming a Salaried GP can be a great career move.
Key Benefits:
✔ Fixed salary and job security.
✔ Paid annual leave, sick leave, and pension contributions.
✔ No financial investment in the practice.
✔ Less administrative burden than GP Partners.
✔ Better work-life balance compared to locum or partner GPs.
Pros:
✔ Higher earning potential.
✔ Greater control over how the practice is run.
Cons:
❌ Financial risks and responsibilities.
❌ Long working hours and administrative duties.
Pros:
✔ Flexible working hours.
✔ Opportunity to work in different settings.
Cons:
❌ No guaranteed income or job security.
❌ No employee benefits (e.g., sick pay, pension).
❌ Need to manage taxes and invoices independently.
Pros:
✔ Diverse and engaging career.
✔ Opportunity to specialise in different areas.
Cons:
❌ Managing multiple commitments can be challenging.
❌ Income may vary depending on different roles.
✔ NHS pension contributions.
✔ Paid sick leave and maternity/paternity leave.
✔ Annual leave entitlement.
✅ Job stability and regular income
✅ A structured work schedule
✅ Minimal administrative responsibilities
✅ A strong work-life balance …then becoming a Salaried GP might be the right choice for you.
If you’re considering a Salaried GP role, now is a great time to explore opportunities. Many practices and PCNs are actively seeking dedicated GPs to join their teams.
🚀 Looking for a Salaried GP position? Get in touch with MedMatch Medical today at info@medmatch.co.uk to find the perfect role in a supportive environment.
Types of GPs in the UK
1. Salaried GP
A Salaried GP is employed directly by a GP practice, Primary Care Network (PCN), or NHS organisation under a fixed contract. Unlike partners or locums, salaried GPs have set working hours, a guaranteed income, and employment benefits.Key Benefits:
✔ Fixed salary and job security.
✔ Paid annual leave, sick leave, and pension contributions.
✔ No financial investment in the practice.
✔ Less administrative burden than GP Partners.
✔ Better work-life balance compared to locum or partner GPs.
2. GP Partner
A GP Partner is a co-owner of the practice and has financial and managerial responsibilities alongside their clinical duties. Partners often earn more than salaried GPs but take on additional risks and administrative tasks.Pros:
✔ Higher earning potential.
✔ Greater control over how the practice is run.
Cons:
❌ Financial risks and responsibilities.
❌ Long working hours and administrative duties.
3. Locum GP
A Locum GP works flexibly, covering shifts at different practices. Locums are self-employed and can choose when and where they work, often earning higher hourly rates than salaried GPs.Pros:
✔ Flexible working hours.
✔ Opportunity to work in different settings.
Cons:
❌ No guaranteed income or job security.
❌ No employee benefits (e.g., sick pay, pension).
❌ Need to manage taxes and invoices independently.
4. Portfolio GP
A Portfolio GP balances multiple roles, such as clinical practice, medical education, research, or leadership. This role is ideal for GPs who enjoy variety and professional development.Pros:
✔ Diverse and engaging career.
✔ Opportunity to specialise in different areas.
Cons:
❌ Managing multiple commitments can be challenging.
❌ Income may vary depending on different roles.
Why Salaried GPs Stand Out
Salaried GP roles are becoming increasingly popular due to the work-life balance, stability, and financial security they offer. Unlike GP Partners, salaried GPs don’t have to worry about running a business, and unlike locums, they don’t have to chase work or manage unpredictable income.Ideal for Work-Life Balance
Salaried GPs have predictable schedules, making it easier to plan personal time and avoid burnout—something many locums and partners struggle with.Consistent Salary & Employment Benefits
Unlike locums, salaried GPs receive a steady salary with added benefits such as:✔ NHS pension contributions.
✔ Paid sick leave and maternity/paternity leave.
✔ Annual leave entitlement.
Lower Administrative Burden
GP Partners often spend significant time on administrative and managerial tasks. Salaried GPs, on the other hand, focus more on patient care, with less paperwork and financial stress.Who Should Consider a Salaried GP Role?
If you’re a GP looking for:✅ Job stability and regular income
✅ A structured work schedule
✅ Minimal administrative responsibilities
✅ A strong work-life balance …then becoming a Salaried GP might be the right choice for you.
Conclusion
With various GP career paths available, choosing the right one depends on your professional and personal goals. While GP Partners have financial incentives and locums enjoy flexibility, Salaried GPs stand out for their stability, benefits, and manageable workload.If you’re considering a Salaried GP role, now is a great time to explore opportunities. Many practices and PCNs are actively seeking dedicated GPs to join their teams.
🚀 Looking for a Salaried GP position? Get in touch with MedMatch Medical today at info@medmatch.co.uk to find the perfect role in a supportive environment.
