How to become a GP practice manager
You can get into this job through:
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- specialist courses run by professional bodies
Work
You could start as an assistant office manager in a health centre or hospital and work your way up through training and promotion.
Direct Application
You could move into practice management from a range of different business backgrounds. You'll usually need to be an experienced manager with a management qualification.
Experience in a health or social care setting would be an advantage, though it's not essential.
Other Routes
You can get relevant qualifications by training with The Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Managers, Administrators and Receptionists (AMSPAR). Qualifications include:
- a short course Certificate in Health Service Administration
- Level 3 Diploma in Medical Administration
- Level 3 Certificate in Medical Principles for the Administrator
- Level 5 Primary Care and Health Management
These are available through a combination of approved training centres, colleges and online learning. You'll need to be working in a health-related job to study some of the higher-level qualifications.
You can find out more from AMSPAR.
More Information
Career tips
As with all NHS roles, you will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of NHS values. You can find out more in the NHS Constitution.
Professional and industry bodies
Membership of The Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Managers, Administrators and Receptionists (AMSPAR) and the Institute of Healthcare Management will give you access to professional development opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a GP practice manager from Health Careers.