Starting your first job in the NHS as a GP Registrar, and not sure what to expect? Then this article is for you…

First of all congratulations on securing your path into the NHS GP training programme. I am sure many are thrilled while anxious for various reasons, and that is absolutely fine. The intent of this blog is to share some useful tips for new starters, irrespective of your location. Below are few pointers:

General advice

• Get the most out from your induction sessions - This will help you get familiar with various aspects of the workplace and provide you with additional requirements for your job (access etc). HR may also be able to recommend hospital accommodations/facilities etc that you can avail after long shifts. Talk with colleagues to understand more about hospital facilities (e.g. cafeteria, transport or parking etc) that are available.

• Keep up to date with compliance requirements - There are a couple of mandatory training sessions that you will need to complete through the training programme. The key ones include Safeguarding level 3 in adults, Safeguarding level 3 in children and Basic Life Support.

• Arrange for a meeting with your Clinical and Educational Supervisors at the earliest. This is extremely useful, as you will be able to discuss needs or areas of support, earlier rather than later.

Stay organised

• Keep track of work aspects by leveraging your NHS Outlook apps like Outlook OneNote, To Do, Teams etc.

• Securely store your endless list of work credentials with tools like Zoho, LastPass, or Bitwarden. Just remember to keep the master password safe!

• Get comfortable with invaluable phone apps like Foundation, Cinapsis, Accurx Switch, MicroGuide, BNF, MDCalc, Pando, NHS Guide Safeguarding etc.
  

Master the Fourteen Fish Portfolio

• Familiarise early: Dive into your e-portfolio and workplace-based assessments right away. There are excellent resources within the portfolio and RCGP website for detailed information.

• Update regularly: Regularly update the portfolio with evidence and reflections to avoid last-minute panic.

• Exam preparation: Start planning early for AKT and SCA exams, with the help of RCGP resources.

  
  

Manage your work schedule

• Plan leaves: Schedule annual, study, and time-owing leaves ahead of time. Keep a record of leaves and rota, as this may be needed to reference Excel sheets can be a lifesaver here.

• Working hours: Be crystal clear about your hours in both hospital and GP settings to avoid burnout.

• Shadowing: Gain diverse experience by shadowing GPs or sitting in on specific clinics (coil/implant/pessary/skin/OOH etc.) to gain diverse experience.

  
  

Expand your horizons

• Get involved: Consider taking part in Local Medical Committee (LMC) meetings to understand the broader scope of primary care.

• Network: Building a strong professional network will be invaluable throughout your career.

• Balance: Make sure to spend quality time with family and friends. Work-life balance is key to enjoying the journey!