Question 1

How do I become a member?

Accepted Answer

After you have spoken with one of our Clinical Leads, and we agree that we're a good match for each other, we'll send you an offer and the paperwork to join The Medical Chambers. When you have accepted the offer, our team will contact your two clinical references. Once we have these we can proceed to log you onto our booking software, ImpaxHub. Our expert team will support you throughout this process.

Question 2

Aren't you just an Agency?

Accepted Answer

Simply put, no! Our only similarity is that we find you work at practices, however that is where the comparisons end. Working through The Medical Chambers, you remain a freelance GP and self-employed. This means you are still able to access the NHS Pension Scheme and it also means you remain in control of your rates, where and when you work. We put our members at the heart of what we do, and you remain the priority.

Question 3

What am I getting for my money?

Accepted Answer

Building local contacts and working as a locum can take time and patience but joining The Medical Chambers will mean you have a ready-to-go system providing sessions, support and professional development which simplifies your working life and prevents isolation.  These are the main benefits of working through The Medical Chambers:

Question 4

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Membership Fees are 10% of your NET earnings + VAT. Invoices are issued at the end of the month and have payment terms of 30 days.

Question 5

How is The Medical Chambers funded?

Accepted Answer

We spread the costs between members and practices. As well as your membership fees, practices pay a small booking fee. This funds our small but fantastic Admin team who support members and practices alike.

Question 6

What are we looking for in a Member?

Accepted Answer

We want fantastic clinicians who share our ethos of wanting to provide excellent care and be a part of and contribute to our team of locum GPs. We operate as a virtual practice and support one another, so being a team player is key. We also expect our members to be punctual and reliable to maintain our collective reputation. Finally, we expect a certain amount of adaptability, however you will always remain in control of where and when you work.

Question 7

Are the membership fees tax deductible?

Accepted Answer

Yes, professional fees are deductible - speak with your Accountant!

Question 8

Will I get enough work?

Accepted Answer

Yes!
Factors that can affect your booking rate are your work preferences, such as, how far you are willing to travel, whether you can offer a full working day, or work in the school holidays.
If you're leaving a post with some notice, we'd encourage you to join ASAP so we can start booking and marketing your availability straight away.

Question 9

Do I have to work exclusively for The Medical Chambers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All of your locum work needs to come through The Medical Chambers. Any non-locum work, such as salaried posts, partner roles, LMC, ICS, CCG, appraisal posts are fine to continue.
We work along side some Out of Hours and Extended Access providers,  so please discuss this in your chat.

Question 10

How do I get paid?

Accepted Answer

Invoices are issued to practices at the end of the month with payment terms of 14 days NET. Monies are paid directly into your bank account. If there are any late payers, the admin team will chase on your behalf.

Question 11

What about my pension?

Accepted Answer

Working as a locum via The Medical Chambers, you can still contribute to the NHS pension scheme. The practice will pay an employer contribution on top of your sessional rate. You will need to pay a employee contribution in the month after you have received your fees. And this contribution varies dependent on your annual income. We do all the hardwork for you, in calculating your monthly contributions and uploading the information to PCSE online - saving both you and the practice a lot of time!

Question 12

I’m newly qualified, how will you support me?

Accepted Answer

Working as a GP after qualification can be very daunting. Chambers is the closest you will get to a supportive VTS scheme as we mirror the wraparound support you are used to. Commentators say Chambers is like VTS for grown-ups! And they aren't far wrong! 
If you feel the need, we will match you to a “buddy” to support you through the first few months of being a member.

Question 13

I’m feeling jaded, how will you support me?

Accepted Answer

General Practice has never been tougher than it is right now. A lot of our members have faced challenges in their careers and all are sympathetic to the emotional turmoil of working as a GP. Our meetings and conversations allow you a chance to share, feel supported and reflect on your next career steps.

Question 14

I have never been a locum before, how will you support me?

Accepted Answer

Being a locum for the first time can feel intimidating, but the structures and support of Chambers means that our members adapt very quickly. 
As well as understanding the day to day work of a locum, we also have a wealth of knowledge about the practices where you will be based. If challenges arise during the day, we are always on hand to find solutions with the practice so that you can get on with your working day.

FAQs