I moved to my first Local Medical Committee in 2000 having worked as a GP Fund-Holding Manager and a Primary Care Manager for a Primary Care Trust in Southwest London. Londonwide LMCs were to be my learning ground for 18 years and my role and responsibilities grew over that time, my skills developed, and I obtained a BA degree for Heath Care Commissioning from Birmingham University.
Whilst academic achievements are a sound knowledge base and resource, there can be no denying the true worth of experience is out in the field; my best attribute is having an eye for detail, when reviewing policy documents, contracts and communications.
In 2019 I chose to leave the metropolis and join Surrey and Sussex LMCs. All my skills and experience have transferred with me and have been put to good use developing Locally Enhanced Service agreements and improving and maintaining engagement with local representatives and stakeholders through the LMC Liaison meetings.
The harmonisation of LCSs in Sussex continues its journey and Surrey Heartlands having just completed its major LCS review both face enormous financial challenges. For our three boroughs in SWL, local LCS reviews also face similar financial constraints.
But as national policies come and go, I consider the art of applying flexibility and adaptation at the core of working within healthcare systems essential and so will endeavour to see that we do this to ensure the best services that are available are secured for Surrey and Sussex GPs and their practices.