What Is a Portfolio GP? (And How It Compares to a Salaried GP)

The role of the General Practitioner in the UK has evolved significantly over the past decade. Increasing workload pressures, changing expectations, and a greater focus on work–life balance have led many doctors to rethink the traditional full‑time GP model.

One term you may hear more often now is “portfolio GP.” But what does it actually mean — and how does it compare to being a salaried GP?

This guide explains what a portfolio GP is, why the model is growing in popularity, and the key differences between salaried GP vs portfolio GP.

What Is a Portfolio GP?

A portfolio GP is a General Practitioner who combines clinical GP work with additional roles, rather than working solely in a traditional salaried or partner position.

Instead of spending all their time in GP surgery sessions, a portfolio GP splits their working week across a “portfolio” of roles. These roles can be clinical, non‑clinical, or a mix of both.

Importantly, a portfolio GP is not a qualification or formal title — it simply describes how a GP structures their career.

What Roles Make Up a Portfolio GP Career?

A portfolio GP usually works fewer clinical sessions and supplements them with other interests or responsibilities.

Clinical work may include:

• Locum GP sessions
• Part‑time salaried GP roles
• GP with Special Interest (GPwSI) roles
• Out‑of‑hours or urgent care shifts

Portfolio (additional) roles may include:

• Teaching medical students or GP registrars
• Clinical leadership roles (PCN, ICB, or CQC work)
• Appraisal and GP mentoring
• Digital health or health‑tech roles
• Medical writing or advisory work
• Occupational or private medicine
• Research or academic roles

Each portfolio GP’s career looks different, depending on their interests, experience, and lifestyle goals.

Why Are More GPs Becoming Portfolio GPs?

The rise of the portfolio GP reflects wider changes across general practice.

Common reasons GPs choose a portfolio career include:

• Improved work–life balance
• Reduced risk of burnout
• Greater variety in day‑to‑day work
• Multiple income streams
• Increased autonomy and flexibility
• Opportunity to develop specialist interests

Many GPs now work 2–6 clinical sessions per week, with the remaining time dedicated to portfolio roles.

Salaried GP vs Portfolio GP: What’s the Difference?

While both roles are common in UK general practice, there are key differences.

Salaried GP

A salaried GP is employed by a GP practice on a contract and is paid a fixed salary.

Typical features:

• Regular, predictable income
• Fixed number of clinical sessions
• Minimal responsibility for practice finances
• Limited flexibility outside contracted hours

Pros:

• Stability and job security
• Less administrative responsibility
• Clear structure

Cons:

• Less flexibility
• Income ceiling
• Higher risk of burnout if working full‑time

Portfolio GP

A portfolio GP combines part‑time clinical work with additional roles, often across multiple organisations.

Typical features:

• Mix of employed, self‑employed, or locum work
• Flexible schedule
• Diverse responsibilities
• Variable income streams

Pros:

• Greater flexibility
• Reduced clinical workload
• Career variety
• Ability to pursue interests outside consultations

Cons:

• Less predictable income
• More self‑management required
• May require careful planning early in career

Can a Salaried GP Also Be a Portfolio GP?

Yes. Many portfolio GPs hold a part‑time salaried GP rolealongside their other work.

For example:

• 4 salaried GP sessions per week
• 1 day teaching
• 1 day PCN leadership role

In this case, the GP is both salaried and portfolio‑working.

Is a Portfolio GP Career Right for Everyone?

Not necessarily. Portfolio working suits GPs who:

• Value flexibility and variety
• Are comfortable managing multiple roles
• Want to reduce full‑time clinical commitments

Some GPs prefer the structure and predictability of a full‑time salaried role — particularly early in their careers.

Others move into portfolio working later, once they have built experience, confidence, and professional networks.

Final Thoughts

A portfolio GP is not leaving general practice — they are reshaping it.

By combining clinical care with leadership, education, digital health, or specialist interests, portfolio GPs are creating more sustainable careers while continuing to support patients and the wider NHS.

Understanding the difference between salaried GP vs portfolio GP helps practices, recruiters, and GPs themselves make better long‑term workforce decisions.

As general practice continues to evolve, portfolio careers are likely to remain a central part of the GP workforce.