Practice managers work in primary care, where they manage the overall running of general practices (GP surgeries).
Training and qualifications required
People enter practice management from a variety of backgrounds. Experience of managing in a healthcare environment is often required or preferred. As a practice manager, you’re usually required to hold a relevant qualification – either the Certificate/Diploma in Primary Care and Health Management awarded by the Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Managers, Administrators and Receptionists or the Vocational Training Scheme for General Practice Managers - awarded by the Institute of Healthcare Management
Expected working hours and salary range
Practice managers employed on NHS terms and conditions could be on a salary of between AfC band 5 (if working in a small practice or as an assistant practice manager, for instance) and 8b.
They will usually work a standard 37.5 hours per week and may work a shift pattern. Terms and conditions of service will vary for employers outside the NHS. For practice managers, salaries may range from between £30,000 and £50,000 per year.
Desirable skills and values
To work in practice management, you’ll typically need excellent financial skills, the ability to manage a changing environment, good communication skills, leadership and motivational skills, organisational skills, a willingness to work with others and respect their views, confidence with information technology, negotiating skills, the ability to challenge the way things are and find better alternatives, honesty and fairness in dealing with other people and a commitment to the ideals of quality and fairness in delivering healthcare.
Prospects
With further training and/or experience, you may be able to develop your career further into more senior managerial roles within the practice or other healthcare organisations.
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