GP TechLead

Out of hours is a service that provides primary care when the normal GPs have closed, so is usually available after 18:30 on weekdays and all the weekends. It is also available on bank holidays if the GP surgeries are closed (which is most of the time but during Covid, GP surgeries have had to stay open for 2 of the bank holidays). Ideally issues that are dealt with are ones that are more urgent that can't wait until  you see your regular GP, not a long term issue that requires investigations or referrals. 

GPs can earn extra money through many different means. One of the most popular ways is to work in Out Of Hours (OOH) or UCC in your local area. These are usually run by groups of GPs or private healthcare companies (Care UK). Most new GP trainees will have done an OOH shift when training but here I'll try breakdown what working life is like for OOH/UCC. OOH is operational when the GP surgeries close (usually 1830) until they reopen again on 08:00 on a weekday. Over the weekend that is 18:30 Friday until 08:00 Monday. Patient's call 111 and if they get triaged for a GP call, they will put onto a central list on the GP's computer screen. They are then called back by the GP who will then try manage the patient - either on the phone, bring them down for face-to-face consultation, schedule a home visit or refer them to A+E. The GP may be the one who is doing the face-to-face consultation or do the home visit. GPs working OOH may be done in a section of a hospital or a...