When we think of business continuity planning for our practice, we don’t often consider practice continuity after death, but this is a real consideration for single-handed GPs. It can be a grim reality for families that should the death of a single-handed GP suddenly occur; the practice’s GMS contract will fall after 7 days.We would encourage all single-handed GPs to consider adding another partner to their contract to help negate this situation. The second partner does not necessarily have to be a GP. The benefit of having a second non-GP partner is that if the GP were to die, that up to a 6 month period can be granted in which to find a new GP to join the contract, before it would fall.

Obviously partnership should not be entered into lightly & due consideration should be given to all the responsibilities of being a partner & partnership.

Further guidance on this matter may be found here, or if you require further information regarding this subject please do not hesitate to contact the LMC office.