
GP Practice
Is that General Practice Practice or General Practitioner Practice?
And does it matter?
If we want people to recognise the multiprofessional workforce now providing services in general practice, it's crucial to use the right terms. Not only does GP Practice over-medicalise people’s perception, but general practice is no longer solely the domain of General Practitioners. Whilst we absolutely need General Practitioners, evidence and recent experience shows that a diverse range of professionals is essential to meet the complex health and care needs of our communities in ways that work for them. A tool box, if you will, or professionals, working together to improve the health and wellbeing of their communities.
When we only refer to GP and GP Practice or other such terms, without explanation, we can't expect people to understand who works in general practice, their unique skills, and the valuable contributions they make.
Continuing to use GP Practice also potentially places undue pressure on General Practitioners, at a time when numbers are decreasing, and many younger doctors are choosing not to take on the burdens associated with partnership, preferring security or flexibility that salaried and locum contracts offer.
So, my ask is, please clarify what you mean. Are you talking about a general practice or a General Practitioner. It matters if our multiprofessional workforce are to be seen, recognised, understood and reach their potential in improving the lives of the people in their communities.
Ruths Reflections.
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