Locum GP: What You Should Know

General Practitioners remain at the heart of primary care in the United Kingdom. In today’s healthcare landscape, the role of the Locum GP has grown rapidly, attracting doctors who value flexibility, career variety, and professional autonomy. But what does it really mean to be a Locum GP, and how can you make the most of these unique opportunities?

What is a Locum GP?

A Locum GP is a qualified doctor who temporarily fills in for other GPs during periods of absence such as sickness, annual leave, or maternity leave. Locums work in a range of settings across GP practices, urgent treatment centres, out of hours clinics, and sometimes hospital environments. Unlike permanent staff, locum GPs are engaged for short- or medium-term assignments—this could be a single day, several weeks, or months at a time. As an independent clinician, you can set your own work pattern, choosing both when and where you practise.

Locum GP Jobs in the UK

With workforce shortages and ever-increasing demand across the NHS and private sector, the market for locum GP jobs has never been stronger. Opportunities exist in urban and rural clinics, large NHS partnerships, practice groups, and private settings. Many locums use these varied posts to broaden their clinical experience and expand their professional networks. Leading platforms such as work.healthcare list high-quality vacancies across the country, with new options posted daily.

Locum GP Salary in the UK

Locum GPs typically enjoy considerably higher hourly rates than their permanent counterparts, reflecting the flexibility and short notice required. Average rates currently range from £60 to £100 per hour, with some high-demand settings offering more. A full-time locum can potentially gross £100,000 to £150,000 per year, depending on chosen shifts. Remember, as a locum you are responsible for your own tax, National Insurance, and pension arrangements, so factor these into your take-home calculations.

Locum GP Shifts

One of the greatest benefits of locum work is control over your schedule. Locum GPs can decide to work full-time, part-time, or accept occasional shifts that fit around other commitments—early mornings, evenings, weekends, or daytimes. The range of shifts on offer varies by practice or clinic type, giving you the chance to find a work-life balance that suits your own preferences.

Locum GP: Pros and Cons

• Flexibility: Choose when, where, and how much you work.
• Higher Pay: Enhanced hourly rates for short-term or hard-to-fill roles.
• Variety: Exposure to new teams, clinical challenges, and patient populations builds professional development.
• Work-Life Balance: Adjust your workload as your needs and interests change.

• Lack of Security: Fewer guaranteed hours and less long-term stability.
• No Employee Benefits: You arrange your own pension, tax, and (often) indemnity cover.
• Adapting to Change: New settings and systems require flexibility and resilience.
• Self-management: Finding work, organising paperwork, and understanding contracts is your responsibility.

Working with a Locum GP Agency

Most doctors looking for locum work use agencies to find suitable roles and streamline administration. Locum agencies and job boards help with placements, compliance, and can even assist with tax and payroll. At work.healthcare, we connect GPs with a wide range of locum jobs nationwide. By using an experienced agency, you can focus on clinical work, knowing the logistics, contracts, and payments are expertly managed.

Final Thoughts

Locum GP work remains a flexible, rewarding, and financially attractive career path for doctors in the UK. With strong demand, competitive rates, and the ability to tailor your work-life balance, locum posts appeal to GPs at every stage—from newly qualified doctors to those easing into retirement. Whether you seek variety, autonomy, or supplemental income, locum GP opportunities put your career in your hands.

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