GP practice manager

You can get into this job through:

• working towards this role
• applying directly
• training courses run by professional bodies

Work

You could start as an assistant office manager in a health centre or hospital and do training to work your way up.

Direct Application

You could apply directly to become a GP practice manager.

You'll usually need to have a business background and be an experienced manager with a management qualification.

It might be useful if you have experience working in health or social care.

Other Routes

You could do a training course with the Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Administrators and Receptionists (AMSPAR)  to get qualified.

Qualifications include:

• Level 3 Diploma in Medical Administration
• Level 3 Certificate in Medical Principles for the Administrator
• Level 5 Primary Care and Health Management

You can do these courses at an approved training centre, college or online. For some qualifications, you'll need to be working in a job related to health.

More Information

Career Tips

You'll be expected to understand how NHS values apply in your work when applying for a course.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You could join the Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Administrators and Receptionists (AMSPAR)  or the Institute of Health and Social Care Management for professional development opportunities.

Further Information

You can find out more about becoming a GP practice manager from Health Careers .

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• business management skills
• knowledge of English language
• administration skills
• leadership skills
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

Day-to-day tasks

As a GP practice manager, you could:

• supervise medical secretaries and manage reception
• manage medical records and appointment systems
• make sure the practice meets its financial targets
• monitor prescriptions, order stock and organise rotas
• arrange cleaning, maintenance and security for the building

Working environment

You could work at a GP practice or at a health centre.

With experience you could:

• become a partner of a GP practice
• move into healthcare management in a hospital, health authority or NHS trust
• work as a manager in private healthcare or in social services