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GPC guidance for salaried GPs: Extended hours

April 2008

Some GP practices are looking to extend their opening hours following the introduction of the new extended access Directed Enhanced Service (DES). Details of the DES can be found in the GPC guidance note, Focus on Extended Access 2008/09.

This guidance note has been prepared for salaried GPs who may be asked to amend their contracted hours of work on a permanent basis. It covers:

• What action you should take if your employer wants to change your hours
• Points to consider before making a decision
• How your employer may change your hours/terms and conditions
• Points to consider in responding to your employer’s proposal
• Action to take if your hours are unilaterally changed
• Action to take if your hours are changed with your agreement
• BMA support available to BMA members.

While this guidance note provides advice on where a permanent change to your terms and conditions is proposed, it may be that your employer requests that you work different hours on a temporary basis. If this occurs and you agree to the change, then if you are employed under the model salaried GP contract you will receive payment for this extra work based on a pro rata of their salary.

To download this guidance note please use the link on the right hand side of this page.