One in four general practitioners - fully qualified doctors specialising in family medicine - in the UK work as freelance locum GPs. We're the most professional...
Tori Ferguson answers questions on taxes, expenses, national insurance, NHS and private pensions from experienced and new GP locums as well as GPs and GP registrars who are thinking of locuming for the first time in 2025.Also available on YouTube https://youtu.be/r0xu5p1PbWUAs healthcare professionals, we understand the day-to-day challenges you face, which is why we founded NASGP. We are a supportive membership body for GP locums, and we are also home to LocumDeck – the award-winning workforce management platform for GP locums and practices: nasgp.org.ukVictoria (Tori) Ferguson BA Hons, ATT CTA: After working for the NHS Tori joined Honey Barrett in October 2016 as part of the tax team. In addition to dealing with personal tax clients, Tori forms part of the specialist medical team where she deals primarily with tax and pension-tax matters for our doctor clients, as well as assisting with GP practice accounts.The information contained in this podcast is for guidance only, and does not constitute advice given by Tori Ferguson or Honey Barrett. No responsibility can or will be accepted for loss occasioned to any person or entity as a result of action taken or refrained from in consequence of the contents of this article. Professional advice should be obtained before acting on any information contained herein, from your own accountant, or by contacting Tori for a free initial consultation.
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41:13
Spotting acute leukaemia early in general practice
This podcast features Dr Sarah Smith, a GP and member of the @leukaemiacare advisory panel, discussing the importance of early diagnosis of acute leukaemia. Learn how: Leukaemia is often diagnosed late, with 37% of cases first identified in A&E, leading to poorer outcomes. Common leukaemia symptoms include fatigue, repeated infections, bruising, and bleeding. Symptoms like shortness of breath, fever, night sweats, and bone/joint pain can also be indicators of leukaemia.GPs are advised to have a low threshold for ordering full blood counts if leukaemia is suspected, and to act quickly to get results.The emotional impact of a leukaemia diagnosis is significant, so GPs must communicate sensitively when raising concerns.#Leukaemia #EarlyDiagnosis #GPEducation #BloodCancer #MedicalEducation
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27:38
Ophthalmology in General Practice with Nigel Davies
In this informative podcast, hosted by NASGP, consultant ophthalmologist Nigel Davies from St Thomas’ Hospital shares practical insights on diagnosing and managing common eye conditions in general practice. Nigel offers a structured approach to assessing eye problems, focusing on symptoms and signs, not just diagnoses. The session also covers practical tips on red eye cases, the importance of pupil reactions, and key considerations for conditions like conjunctivitis, retinal detachment, and glaucoma. Perfect for GPs looking to enhance their ophthalmology skills in everyday practice. See YouTube video https://youtu.be/LNklfZ50Joo
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47:59
Starting out with GP locum accounts, with Tori Ferguson
In this informative session hosted by the National Association of Sessional GPs (NASGP), Victoria (Tori) Ferguson, a tax manager at Honey Barrett, shares essential advice for GP locums on managing their finances, tax obligations, and pensions. Tori, a chartered tax advisor, offers a comprehensive guide tailored to GPs who are new to locuming or those seeking a refresher on best financial practices.For further advice on these topics, NASGP members can access more resources and guidance on the NASGP website: https://nasgp.org.ukDuring the talk, Tori covers 10 key points to help locum GPs successfully manage their self-employment status. She explains the importance of setting up a personal tax account, notifying HMRC of self-employment, and staying on top of record-keeping and software tools like LocumDeck. Other essential topics include navigating the NHS pension scheme, understanding expenses for tax deductions, and planning ahead for tax payments, especially with looming changes such as Making Tax Digital.The session also delves into the nuances of claiming allowable business expenses, the significance of maintaining separate bank accounts, and the critical need for GPs to view themselves as both a doctor and a business. Tori emphasises the importance of investing in financial education to stay up-to-date with ever-changing tax laws, whether through self-learning or hiring a specialised accountant.The Q&A session further explores real-world concerns, such as handling fraudulent use of unique taxpayer references (UTRs) and dealing with the complexities of IR35 and employment status, highlighting Tori’s expertise in resolving practical issues GPs may face.Intro 00:00Topics covered: 1. Setting up a personal tax account. 02:41 2. Informing HMRC about self-employment. 03:38 3. Importance of bookkeeping software. 05:23 4. Record-keeping essentials for locums. 06:25 5. Navigating expenses and the trading allowance. 08:30 6. Pension contributions and time limits. 12:00 7. Managing a separate business account. 15:15 8. Saving for taxes and avoiding pitfalls. 16:53 9. Viewing yourself as a business owner. 20:21 10. Investing in financial education. 21:52Q&A 25:41Highlights: • HMRC UTR fraud cases and how to handle them. 27:46 • Employment status and IR35 for locum GPs. 38:07For further advice on these topics, NASGP members can access more resources and guidance on the NASGP website: https://nasgp.org.uk#GPs #LocumTax #Pensions #NASGP #HoneyBarrett #SelfEmployment #TaxAdvice #GPFinance #MedicalAccountants #MakingTaxDigital #IR35 #LocumDeck
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46:33
GP update: Menopause and HRT
This webinar from Dr. Eloise Elphinstone provides an update on managing unscheduled bleeding in postmenopausal women on hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Key points include new guidance on assessing bleeding risk factors and adjusting HRT regimens. Case studies demonstrate approaches to controlling bleeding through modifying estrogen and progesterone doses or alternatives like the Mirena coil. Guidance is also given on ultrasound results and referral pathways. Options for complex cases involving progesterone intolerance or premature ovarian insufficiency are explored. The talk aims to help GPs confidently manage common menopause issues and determine when specialist referral is appropriate. YouTube of this podcast available here https://youtu.be/2dYJiv8-IIQ
One in four general practitioners - fully qualified doctors specialising in family medicine - in the UK work as freelance locum GPs. We're the most professionally isolated of all workers in the National Health Service NHS, and the NASGP exists to support both locum GPs and salaried GPs to improve patient care and make their work more fulfilling and enjoyable.