The following resources are aimed at experienced GP’s considering their options for the future e.g. planning retirement, considering alternative ways of staying in practice, taking time out for family or a career break or practicing overseas and looking to return to general practice in England.

GP Retention Scheme (also see ROAN 2) – for GPs who are seriously looking to leave or have left general practice, and cannot commit to working more than four sessions a week (e.g. due to child care responsibilities). The scheme supports both the GP and the practice by offering financial support, recognising that this role offers greater flexibility and educational support than a standard part-time salaried post.

Return to practice: Induction and Refresher Scheme – designed for GPs who have previously been on the NHS England’s National Performers List (Medical) and wish to return to general practice after a career break, raising a family or time spent working abroad. The scheme also supports the safe introduction of overseas GPs who have qualified outside the UK and have no previous NHS experience.

Return to practice from overseas: portfolio route gives the option for GPs, who have worked in UK general practice for at least a year, and are working abroad in an equivalent primary care setting, to return smoothly to the UK by providing information from their overseas practice rather than take the Induction and Refresher Scheme assessments.

Guidance for returning doctors (RCGP members only) – created with returning GPs in mind (maternity, sick leave, career breaks, working abroad etc.).

The GP career support pack sets out the various types of support available to you throughout your career as a general practitioner in England You can access the GP career support pack on the NHS England website.

This information sheet is relevant primarily to NHS England responsible officers.

Information released October 2018.