The UK is facing an ongoing GP crisis. Growing patient demand, workforce shortages, and increasing administrative pressures have made it harder for practices to deliver timely, high-quality care. As permanent GP numbers struggle to keep pace with demand, locum GPs have emerged as a vital and practical solution for practices and patients alike.
Rather than being a temporary fix, locum GPs are now a core part of how primary care functions.
Understanding the GP Crisis
Several factors have contributed to the current GP shortage:
- An ageing population with more complex health needs
- Rising workload and burnout among permanent GPs
- Early retirements and reduced full-time working hours
- Difficulty recruiting permanent GPs, particularly in rural and high-demand areas
The result is increased pressure on practices, longer waiting times for patients, and reduced continuity of care.
The Rise of the Locum GP
Over the past decade, locum GP work has grown significantly. More doctors are choosing locum roles due to:
- Greater flexibility and control over working hours
- Improved work-life balance
- Reduced administrative and managerial responsibilities
- Opportunities to work across different practices and settings
For many GPs, locum work offers a sustainable way to remain in frontline clinical practice without the pressures associated with permanent roles.
Why Locum GPs Are a Solution to the GP Crisis
1. Immediate Workforce Support
Locum GPs provide rapid cover for practices facing sudden staff shortages due to sickness, leave, or vacancies. This helps maintain appointment availability and prevents service disruption.
2. Reducing Burnout in Permanent Staff
By filling rota gaps, locum GPs reduce the workload on permanent teams, helping to prevent burnout and improve staff retention.
3. Flexibility for Practices
Practices can scale staffing levels up or down based on demand, seasonal pressures, or long-term recruitment challenges, without the commitment of permanent hires.
4. Maintaining Patient Access to Care
The presence of locum GPs ensures patients can still access timely appointments, reducing delays in diagnosis and treatment.
5. Supporting Underserved Areas
Locum GPs often work in hard-to-recruit or high-demand regions, providing essential clinical support where it is needed most.
Addressing Common Concerns About Locum GPs
While concerns are sometimes raised around continuity of care, many practices successfully integrate locum GPs by:
- Providing clear handovers and clinical systems
- Using regular locums familiar with the practice
- Ensuring access to patient records and protocols
When managed effectively, locum GPs can deliver care that is both safe and high quality.
The Future of Primary Care
Locum GPs are no longer just a short-term solution — they are a key pillar of modern primary care delivery. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, flexible workforce models will be essential in maintaining patient access and protecting GP wellbeing.
By embracing locum GPs as part of a balanced workforce strategy, practices can better navigate current pressures while continuing to deliver high standards of care.
Final Thoughts
The GP crisis requires practical, adaptable solutions. Locum GPs offer flexibility, resilience, and immediate support to overstretched practices. When used strategically, they play a crucial role in sustaining primary care services and supporting both patients and healthcare professionals.
Locum GPs are not just filling gaps — they are helping to future-proof general practice.