Recently, Alecto consultants have been seeing too many GPs fall for deals that are too good to be true, and we hear from them just weeks or months after starting their roles and already wanting to move.
Why does this happen? Because in the world of general practice, a good deal doesn’t always equate to high earnings or GP job satisfaction in reality.
The Reality Behind High Percentages
A clinic offering an unusually high percentage split may seem appealing on paper, but it can often be a red flag. Why? Because the mixed billing clinics offering 70% or more often struggle to attract and retain patients. Without strong patient numbers, even the highest percentage won’t yield the income you’re hoping for. In contrast, strong mixed-billing clinics might offer 65%, but with a steady stream of patients and efficient operations, you could easily earn thousands per day – all while maintaining a sense of GP Job Satisfaction.
Understanding the Role of Guarantees
Many clinics advertise guarantees, but it’s essential to understand what these guarantees signify. A guarantee is there to provide a safety net during the initial transition period. However, if the patient base is solid and you’re billing effectively, you’ll quickly surpass that guarantee and won’t need to rely on it. Be cautious of clinics that push high guarantees without the patient numbers to back them up. Remember, a guarantee only matters if there aren’t enough patients—and that’s not the situation you want to find yourself in.
The Bigger Picture: What to Look for in a Practice
When evaluating a job opportunity, take a holistic view of the practice. What is the patient demographic? How established is the clinic? What systems are in place to support your success? A well-run clinic with a loyal patient base, efficient operations, and a focus on quality care is far more likely to lead to sustainable, high earnings and professional satisfaction than a flashy offer promising the world.
Beware of Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True
It’s worth repeating: if a deal sounds too good to be true, it often is. High percentages and massive upfront payments may come with strings attached—such as an unreliable patient base, poor management, or unrealistic expectations. These factors can lead to burnout, frustration, and ultimately, a call to recruiters like us to find a better option.
How Alecto Can Help
At Alecto, we’re committed to helping GPs find jobs that are not just good deals but truly good opportunities. We thoroughly vet our clients, conducting in-depth conversations and site visits to ensure we’re working with only the best practices. While there are plenty of vacancies out there, not all are created equal. We choose who we work with and we pride ourselves on identifying clinics that align with your personality, preferences, and professional goals.
So, if you’re looking for a job that offers more than just an attractive percentage—a job that provides long-term satisfaction and success—we’re here to help you navigate your options with confidence.