As a busy Practice Manager or GP Partner, staying up-to-date with the latest GP contract changes is crucial for the smooth operation of your practice. With the 2023/24 contract updates now upon us, it’s more important than ever to understand what these changes mean for you and your team. But fear not! We know that navigating the sea of information can be overwhelming, so we’ve compiled this resource guide to provide you with the quickest update sources on the 2023/24 contract changes. In this blog post, we’ll point you in the right direction, highlighting the best resources and expert commentary available to help you stay informed and adapt to the changes with confidence. So grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and let’s dive in!
Official Guidance Unveiled: Get the Scoop on the 2023/24 GP Contract Changes
To get started, it’s essential to explore the official guidance released by the NHS, as these documents will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. Here’s a quick rundown of the primary sources and detailed guidance documents you should check out:
Primary sources of information:
- NHS England GP Contract page: The go-to place for all things related to the GP contract can be found here: https://www.england.nhs.uk/gp/investment/gp-contract/
- GP Contract Changes Letter: For an overview of the 2023/24 contract changes, take a look at this informative letter: https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/changes-to-the-gp-contract-in-2023-24/
Detailed guidance documents:
The above resources will be populated as more decisions are made and information released. But a handful of documents have been released already. You can get into the nitty-gritty of specific aspects of the contract changes by reviewing these detailed guidance documents:
- Network Contract Directed Enhanced Service (DES): https://www.england.nhs.uk/gp/investment/gp-contract/network-contract-directed-enhanced-service-des/ – These documents outline the changes to the Directed Enhanced Services (DES) within the Network Contract, which covers the arrangements for primary care networks, additional roles, and the services they provide.
- Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) Guidance for 2023/24: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/quality-and-outcomes-framework-guidance-for-2023-24/ – This guidance covers the changes to the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) for the 2023/24 financial year. This document will provide you with essential information about the updated indicators, targets, and payment structures related to QOF.
- Weight Management Enhanced Service 2023/24: https://www.england.nhs.uk/gp/investment/gp-contract/weight-management-enhanced-service/ – This document addresses the changes to the Weight Management Enhanced Service for the 2023/24 financial year. By studying this document, you’ll be equipped with the latest guidance on service requirements, patient eligibility criteria, and reimbursement details for implementing the updated weight management service within your practice.
With these official sources in hand, you’ll have a solid foundation for understanding the 2023/24 contract changes and their implications for your practice.
Expert Breakdowns of the 2023/24 GP Contract Changes: Top Resources for Simplified Insights
We all know that time is a precious commodity, and sometimes you need a helping hand to break down complex information into digestible pieces. That’s where expert commentary comes in! As a practice manager with 12 years of experience, I’ve learned the value of never reinventing the wheel. Several “supporters of primary care” have already produced excellent commentary and analysis of the 2023/24 contract changes. Check out these resources for a more in-depth understanding:
- Tarah Humphery at THC Primary Care: Tarah provides a clear breakdown of the PCN DES changes for 2023/24 and highlights the key areas to focus on for Q1: https://www.thcprimarycare.co.uk/post/the-pcn-des-23-24-what-to-focus-on-q1
- Scott McKenzie’s Consultancy: Get valuable insights on what the new GP contract means for your PCN by visiting Scott McKenzie’s blog: https://scottmckenzieconsultancy.com/what-does-the-new-gp-contract-mean-for-your-pcn/
- Dr. Gandalf on YouTube: If you prefer a visual approach, Dr. Gandalf offers an engaging video discussion of the contract changes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E578bTJtpow
These expert resources are invaluable in helping you grasp the intricacies of the 2023/24 contract changes without getting bogged down in the details. They’ll save you time and energy while keeping you well-informed.
Plan Like a Pro: Revisit Our Previous Blog Post on Planning
As you work through the 2023/24 contract changes, it’s crucial to have a solid plan in place to manage and adapt to these updates. In case you missed it, we’ve previously shared a blog post on planning strategies that can help you stay organized and proactive in implementing these changes.
Our previous blog post on planning: https://enhancedprimarycare.co.uk/2023/03/13/surviving-year-end-a-practice-managers-guide-to-self-care/
By revisiting this informative blog post, you’ll learn valuable tips and insights to help you build a comprehensive plan that addresses the new contract changes and keeps your practice running smoothly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to bolster your planning prowess!
Empowering and Delegating: Navigating 2023/24 GP Contract Changes as a Team
Now is the perfect time to tap into the potential of your team and empower them to take on more responsibility in researching the contract changes and proposing the necessary adjustments. Delegating tasks not only eases your workload but also fosters professional growth within your team members, benefiting the entire practice.
Here are a few tips on how to empower and delegate effectively:
- Identify team members with the skills and interest to dive into the details of the contract changes. Encourage them to become experts in their respective areas, such as QOF, DES, or weight management services.
- Set clear expectations and deadlines to ensure that delegated tasks are completed efficiently and thoroughly.
- Provide support and resources to help your team members understand the changes and their implications for the practice. Share the resources mentioned in this blog post and any other relevant information.
- Hold regular check-ins or team meetings to discuss progress, address any concerns, and keep everyone on the same page.
- Celebrate successes and recognize the contributions of team members who have taken on additional responsibilities.
By empowering your team and delegating tasks effectively, you can better manage the implementation of the 2023/24 contract changes while fostering a more engaged and productive workforce.
Stay Connected with the Primary Care Community
In times of change, it’s crucial to maintain strong connections with your peers in the primary care community. By staying connected, you can share insights, advice, and experiences, making it easier to navigate the 2023/24 contract changes together. Here are some ways to engage with fellow professionals in primary care:
- Join online forums and discussion groups: Platforms such as the Practice Index Forum or the NHS Networks Primary Care Network offer opportunities for practice managers and GP partners to connect, share experiences, and exchange ideas. Alternatively, our facebook group is a great place to engage in discussions.
- Attend webinars and virtual events: Keep an eye out for webinars and online events that focus on the GP contract changes, as they can provide valuable information and networking opportunities.
- Participate in local and regional meetings: Engage with the ICS or other regional organizations to stay updated on local developments and initiatives related to the contract changes.
- Leverage social media: Follow relevant organizations, industry influencers, and peers on platforms such as LinkedIn or Twitter to stay informed and join in conversations about the contract updates.
- Subscribe to industry newsletters and blogs: Stay up-to-date with the latest news, insights, and advice by subscribing to primary care newsletters and blogs, like the one you’re reading now!
By staying connected with the primary care community, you can gain valuable perspectives and support as you navigate the 2023/24 contract changes. This collaborative approach will empower you and your practice to adapt more effectively and continue delivering high-quality care to your patients.
Navigating Contract Changes with Confidence
Keeping up with the 2023/24 contract changes can feel overwhelming, but with the right resources and approach, you can stay informed and prepared. By utilizing the official guidance, expert breakdowns, and our previous blog post on planning, you’ll have a solid foundation to navigate the changes with ease. Moreover, harnessing the power of your team through effective delegation and empowerment will ensure a smooth transition for your practice.
Remember, staying proactive and informed is key to managing these contract changes successfully. With the resources and strategies outlined in this blog post, you can confidently tackle the 2023/24 updates and continue providing exceptional primary care services to your patients.
Keep your eyes on our blog – there is always more helpful information on the way!. Next week we will be discussing strategic thinking within practices and specific strategies you can implement to make your life easier and your practice more efficient.