In early 2026, primary care recruitment is no longer just about filling vacancies. Retaining experienced clinicians has become critical for GP practices and PCNs across the UK.
Rising patient demand, budget pressure and workforce shortages mean instability now impacts care quality and costs. Many clinicians are leaving roles due to unpredictable rotas, short-term fixes and reactive staffing models rather than the work itself.
Why Retention Is Now Central to Primary Care Recruitment
High staff turnover disrupts continuity of care, increases locum spend and places additional strain on permanent teams. Practices relying on last-minute cover often enter a costly cycle of churn.
What Successful GP Practices Are Doing Differently
Forward-thinking practices plan staffing earlier, balance locum and permanent recruitment and work with specialist primary care recruitment agencies that understand compliance, funding and role fit.
How Vela Medical Group Supports Primary Care Staffing
Vela Medical Group is a specialist primary care recruitment agency supporting GP practices, PCNs and clinicians across the UK. Whether you need reliable staffing support or are searching for your next primary care role, we help create stable, long-term outcomes.