Maximising the 2025/26 GP Contract: What New Recruits Need to Know
The 2025/26 GP contract marks one of the most positive shifts for primary care in recent years.With additional investment, streamlined funding routes, and greater flexibility for practices, the changes are designed to strengthen the workforce, modernise access, and sustain high-quality patient care. For practices recruiting new staff and for clinicians exploring career opportunities – these […]
Last-Minute Cover Won’t Save You, That’s Why Winter Planning Starts Now!
It might feel early, but preparation is everything. Every year, as winter pressures build, GP practices and PCNs find themselves scrambling to fill rota gaps. In March 2024, GP teams delivered almost 30 million appointments in a single month, which was a 23% increase compared to March 2019. By December 2024, practices and PCNs provided […]
Why Transparent Pricing Should Be Standard in Primary Care Staffing
When you are under pressure to fill shifts, getting cover in place quickly is often the priority. But without full clarity on what you are being charged or what is included, it can be difficult to understand the real value of your staffing setup. Pricing models in Primary Care vary. Some use session rates or […]
Is It Time to Re-Evaluate Your Agency Spend?
When was the last time you reviewed your agency costs? If it’s been over a year, there’s a strong chance you’re overpaying. Not because of any major mistake – but because staffing arrangements that feel familiar can quietly slip out of line with today’s market. At Vela, we speak to Primary Care services every week […]
How to Choose the Right Primary Care Agency: What Sets Vela Apart
When GP practices or Primary Care Networks need staffing support, choosing the right recruitment agency can make all the difference to service quality, workforce continuity and patient care. Here is a guide to what to look for in a primary care partner and why Vela Medical Group stands out. 1. Specialist Focus on Primary Care […]
5 Essential Steps for a Successful First Shift as a Paramedic Practitioner in Primary Care
Starting your first shift as a Paramedic Practitioner in primary care is a significant transition. Whether you’re moving from emergency response or stepping into a new locum or permanent role, working in a GP surgery or urgent care centre comes with new challenges and opportunities. At Vela Medical Group, we specialise in placing highly skilled […]
5 Game-Changing Tips for Your First Shift as a Clinical Pharmacist
Starting your first shift as a Clinical Pharmacist in a GP surgery or primary care setting is a significant career step. Whether you’re in a locum or permanent role, adapting quickly and delivering high-quality care is key to success. At Vela Medical Group, we connect Clinical Pharmacists with top roles across primary care. Here are […]
5 Essential Steps to Smash Your First Shift as a Locum Practice Nurse!
Stepping into a new locum role can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. To ensure a smooth transition and set yourself up for success, here are the top five things you should do before and during your first shift. Before Your First Shift 1. Get to Grips with the Practice’s Policies & Procedures Action: Familiarise yourself […]
The Growing Crisis: GP Shortages in the UK
GP shortages are putting immense pressure on practices, PCNs, and urgent care providers across the UK. When a practice struggles to fill vacancies, the impact goes beyond empty consultation rooms—it affects patient care, staff wellbeing, and financial stability. The True Cost of GP Vacancies Unfilled GP roles lead to:❌ Longer Patient Wait Times – Delayed […]
How the National Insurance Vote Affects GP Practices & Healthcare Professionals
The recent House of Lords vote on National Insurance (NI) contributions has sparked debate across the UK healthcare sector. With GP practices already under financial strain, this decision could have a major impact on budget management, staff retention, and patient care. At Vela Medical Group, we specialise in locum GP and nurse recruitment, ensuring that […]