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About us

The Doncaster Local Medical Committee (LMC) is an independent, legally recognised organisation that represents the interests of its levy-paying members. Primarily, these members are General Practitioners (GPs), but they also include other healthcare professionals such as Practice Managers. These professionals contribute to the Statutory Levy by virtue of their status as partners in NHS Primary Care contracts.

Doncaster LMC advocates for its members at local, regional, and national levels on all issues related to healthcare provision. Whether it is policy, contractual matters, or professional support, the LMC is dedicated to ensuring that the voices of local healthcare professionals are heard and supported.

Membership

Membership is open to all levy-paying healthcare professionals working across Doncaster. The statutory levy is calculated at 45p per registered patient and is used to fund the activities of Doncaster LMC. As a not-for-profit organisation, Doncaster LMC ensures that all funds are reinvested into supporting its members.

In addition to the statutory levy, Doncaster LMC is responsible for collecting and paying a voluntary levy on behalf of its members to support the General Practice Defence Fund (GPDF), which plays a crucial role in supporting the General Practitioners Committee (GPC) of the British Medical Association (BMA). This national body advocates for GPs across the UK, engaging in key negotiations and policy-making activities. The current voluntary levy is 6p per registered patient.

Importantly, Doncaster LMC does not impose any additional charges to our levy-paying members for the services it provides.

If you would like to become a member or require further details, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

The Committee

The Doncaster LMC is comprised of 16 elected members who work in and around Doncaster. These members represent their localities through regular committee meetings, special representative sessions, and by influencing local healthcare policies. They also provide essential support to members when needed.

These elected members serve as the voice of the members to the LMC’s executive team, ensuring that the interests and concerns of the medical community are well-represented.

Equality and Diversity

Our committee is committed to maintaining diversity and equality, with the following breakdown:

  • 1:1 BAME : Non-BAME
  • 3:1 Male : Female

This structure ensures a broad range of perspectives in all our discussions and decisions.

What We Do

Doncaster LMC is here to support healthcare professionals in many ways. Our services include:

  • Monthly newsletter – Simplified updates with the most important information directly to your inbox.
  • Contract negotiations – Support for negotiating and clarifying NHS and contractual matters.
  • Premises negotiations – Guidance and representation on premises-related issues.
  • Professional representation – Ensuring our members have a voice at every level of the healthcare system.
  • Media support – Working with journalists and the media to protect your practice’s reputation.
  • Contract advice and clarification – Clear and detailed advice on any aspects of your NHS contract.
  • Clinician support – Offering advice and support to GPs and clinicians in times of need.
  • Practice Manager support – Helping practice managers navigate challenges and organisational issues.
  • Pastoral support – Confidential, supportive conversations for those facing personal challenges.
  • Whistleblowing support – Offering guidance and protection for those raising concerns.
  • Mediation – Assisting in resolving conflicts within partnerships or practice teams.
  • Promotion of General Practice – Advocating for the value and role of GPs in healthcare.
  • Free workshops – Clinical, organisational, regulatory, and educational workshops designed for your practice.
  • Free legal drop-in workshops – Access to legal advice and support without extra charge.
 

Case Studies

 

Case study 1

Working with journalists
A Practice Manager contacted the LMC after a journalist reached out regarding a recent incident at their practice. Uncertain about how to proceed, the Practice Manager asked the LMC for support. The LMC liaised with the journalist on behalf of the practice, handling all communications and ensuring the practice’s interests were protected.

Case Study 2

Practice Manager Support
A Practice Manager reached out to the LMC after not receiving payment for services provided under a locally agreed contract. Upon investigation, the LMC found that several practices in the area were facing the same issue. The LMC intervened, contacting the commissioner and facilitating prompt payments to the affected practices.

Case study 3

Partnership mediation
A General Practitioner sought the LMC's help due to conflicts within their partnership. Although the partnership had a valid agreement, the terms were unclear, causing tension. The LMC executive facilitated a discussion among the partners, helping them to clarify and update their partnership agreement. This process helped restore harmony within the team.

Case study 4

Pastoral support
A General Practitioner reached out to the LMC for support with personal issues that were affecting their work. The LMC executive provided a safe space for the GP to discuss their difficulties and connected them with appropriate support services. This ensured the GP received the help they needed, both professionally and personally.

If you’re interested in learning more or becoming a member, please contact Doncaster LMC today. We are here to support you and advocate for the future of healthcare in Doncaster.

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