What Can I Do with the GP Crisis as a GP in the UK?

July 8, 2025

The UK is facing a well-documented GP crisis. With increasing patient demand, an aging population, rising administrative burdens, and a shrinking workforce, general practice has become more challenging than ever before. As a GP, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or stuck in a system that’s under strain. But while the crisis is real, there are still actionable steps you can take to navigate it—while protecting your wellbeing, growing professionally, and even rediscovering your passion for medicine.

1. Explore Locum Work for Flexibility and Control

One of the most empowering choices you can make is to work as a locum GP. With the current shortage of doctors, locum roles are in high demand across the UK. This gives you more control over:
  • Your working hours
  • Where you work
  • The types of clinical environments you experience
  • Your income
Locuming allows you to avoid burnout from overworked permanent roles while keeping your clinical skills sharp and your autonomy intact. At MedMatch Medical, we work with GPs to match them to locum opportunities that suit their schedule, preferences, and goals.

2. Consider Portfolio Careers

The crisis has prompted many GPs to diversify their careers. A portfolio career can include:
  • Clinical sessions in general practice
  • Teaching or mentoring medical students
  • Work in digital health
  • Clinical research or policy work
  • Leadership roles in PCNs or NHS trusts
This variety not only keeps your career interesting but also makes your work more sustainable by spreading your time across different pressures and rewards.

3. Move Into Remote or Digital Roles

With the rise of telemedicine, many GPs are choosing to work in remote consultations. Whether it’s via NHS services or digital-first providers, remote roles can reduce the stress of in-person work and give you greater control over your schedule. Digital GP roles are particularly appealing if you’re looking to balance family life or reduce commuting.

4. Relocate for Better Work-Life Balance

Not all regions face the crisis equally. Some areas offer better funding, more support, and lower patient demand. If your current location is wearing you down, consider relocating. This might mean moving from a city practice to a rural one—or vice versa—depending on your preferences. MedMatch can help you assess which regions are offering more sustainable working conditions and the best career opportunities.

5. Advocate and Collaborate

The crisis won’t be solved by individual effort alone, but GPs do have a voice. Getting involved with:
  • Local Medical Committees (LMCs)
  • PCN leadership
  • BMA advocacy
  • NHS innovation pilots
…can give you a say in how the system evolves—and help you feel less like a victim of the crisis and more like part of the solution.

6. Don’t Neglect Your Wellbeing

With growing pressure comes the risk of burnout, anxiety, and disillusionment. No job is worth your health. Make sure you’re:
  • Taking regular breaks
  • Talking to peers or professional counsellors
  • Setting clear boundaries with work
  • Seeking roles that support—not sap—your wellbeing
There are more options than ever for GPs, and MedMatch Medical can help you find roles that suit your priorities.

Ready to Take Control of Your GP Career?

Whether you’re looking for locum work, a permanent move, or a fresh direction, MedMatch Medical is here to help. Our dedicated consultants work with GPs across the UK to match them with flexible, fulfilling roles that align with their personal and professional goals. Get in touch today to explore what’s possible—even in the middle of a crisis. Visit Medmatch Medical