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GPC negotiators parachuted in to help PMS practices

Exclusive The GPC has been sending in crack teams of negotiators to help out PMS practices whose contracts are under review by NHS managers.

Unlike GMS contracts, which are agreed nationally with the GPC, PMS contracts are determined by local negotiation, but that does not preclude the GPC from getting involved.

Dr Peter Smith, a GP in Kingston and vice president of the National Association of primary Care, said aid from the GPC had been ‘key' in his own practice's successful negotiations.

Dr Smith said: ‘It is a little known fact that your LMC can on your behalf request assistance from the GPC with the negotiation process with an experienced outside negotiator.

‘We did so, and it is one of the key reasons we reached agreement.'

‘I would urge all PMS groups to do this as you avoid the opening of old local wounds, whether with old practices or with your PCT/cluster.'

GPC chief negotiater Dr Chaand Nagpaul told Pulse the BMA was always ready to help members with their contract talks locally as well as nationally. He added: ‘We have produced comprehensive guidelines for LMCs at a local level.

See Dr Peter Smith's article: Surviving a PMS contract review