The General Practice Podcast

• Podcast – Judy Oliver – The Role of the Voluntary Sector in General Practice

  In this episode, Ben is joined by Judy Oliver from Oliver & Company to discuss the role of the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector in healthcare and general practice. Judy explains why the voluntary sector is essential yet often misunderstood. She explores how social prescribing and asset mapping can better connect patients with non-clinical support, highlights successful collaborative models such as the Bromley by Bow Centre, and discusses the challenges VCSE organisations face around funding and visibility. The conversation focuses on practical ways PCNs and practices can work more effectively with local voluntary groups, move towards neighbourhood-based care, and take simple next steps to build meaningful partnerships that improve patient outcomes. Introduction (00:08) The Voluntary Sector in General Practice (00:22) What does VCSE mean? (02:23) Does it deliver real benefit? (03:21) How have PCNs worked with the voluntary sector? (05:22) How to find what's available in your area (07:40) Finding the right people (10:22) From PCNs to neighbourhood working (15:01) Next steps (18:18) Getting in touch (19:47) Visit the Oliver & Company website here, or contact Judy via email here, or Charlotte here.  For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

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• Podcast – Practice Index – Budget Changes Unpacked

  In this week's episode, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, we're joined by Claire Houston from Practice Index, Paul Gordon from Atomos, and ​James Gransby from Azets to break down what the latest budget really means for general practice. We explore how tools like the salary calculator and benchmarking manager can support smarter decision making as practices respond to rising costs.  They also look closely at how these budget changes affect personal finances, from the withdrawal of personal allowances for high earners to the long term impact of frozen tax thresholds. With insights on NHS pensions, future tax considerations, and the importance of revisiting financial plans, this episode offers straightforward guidance to help practice teams and individuals stay confident, informed, and financially resilient. The Budget (00:08) Benchmarking Manager (02:28) Reactions to the budget (03:30)  What should people be doing differently now? (07:55) NHS Pension (09:09) What will be different? (10:58) Increase in the National Living Wage (14:27)  The Carr-Hill formula (16:31)  The timeframe (19:25)  Other changes.. (20:34)  ISA changes.. (21:37) Final thoughts.. (24:16)  To book your free Benchmarking Manager demo, click here or to access the Salary Calculator, login here.  To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

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• Podcast – Ben Gowland – Why PCNs Should Lead the Way with Neighborhood Meetings

  In this solo episode, Ben explores how PCNs can transform their role within the local healthcare system by taking the lead in organising neighborhood meetings. Moving beyond the limits of bilateral conversations, Ben explains how these gatherings can unite stakeholders, such as ambulance trusts and mental health services, to drive collaboration, set shared priorities, and influence the direction of neighborhood healthcare planning before formal mandates take shape.  With practical advice on starting small, building trust, and fostering genuine partnership, this episode offers tips for PCNs ready to step up as proactive leaders shaping the future of their communities. Introduction (00:09)  Neighbourhood meetings (00:30) Convening the neighbourhood meeting.. (02:24) Why does Ben think it's a good idea? (03:14) Argument against.. (10:00)  How do I convene a neighbourhood? (14:00)  Key takeaways (20:20)  For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

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• Podcast – Dr Hannan Chaudery – How GP Triage Is Transforming Patient Access in the NHS

  Can AI truly transform how patients access healthcare? In this episode, Ben is joined by Dr Hannan Chaudery, Chief Technology Officer of GP Triage, to explore how autonomous AI is reshaping patient care across the NHS. Hannan explains how GP Triage's innovative system prioritises appointments based on clinical urgency, easing the pressure on receptionists and clinicians while improving patient outcomes. With the NHS now requiring online consultations, GP Triage's AI powered triage is leading the way in managing surging demand efficiently and effectively, and adapting seamlessly to the needs of each individual practice. Introduction (00:08)  Autonomous AI triage (00:18)  Are requirements increasing demand? (01:08)  More about Dr Hannan Chaudery.. (02:02)  More about GP Triage Ltd.. (02:58)  The tools learning (05:42) The risks.. (06:35) Your tool doesn't make mistakes? (07:59) Giving patients the choice (08:53) Evolving your tool over time (12:29)  The accuracy of the tool (13:26)  Coverage in England and beyond.. (14:48) Implementing change.. (15:40)  How do you define success? (17:34)  Online vs telephone (20:22) How it all works and what it costs.. (22:00)  What's next? (24:31) Visit the GP Triage website here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

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• Podcast – Practice Index – Navigating CQC Inspections with Confidence

  In this week's episode, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, we welcome back podcast regular Claire Houston and returning guest Kay Keane from Urban Village Medical Practice, a practice that recently achieved an Outstanding CQC rating. Together, they share practical advice and real experiences from the CQC inspection process, from innovative community services to managing the pressures of staff questionnaires and documentation. Kay offers a candid look at how preparation, teamwork, and a strong practice culture can make all the difference. Claire highlights how practices can use tools and resources from Practice Index to streamline compliance, boost confidence, and maintain readiness all year round. They also discuss how to turn inspection challenges into opportunities for growth, the importance of clear communication, and practical tips for approaching appeals calmly and effectively. Whether you're preparing for your first inspection or aiming to strengthen your next rating, this episode is full of valuable insight and encouragement for every practice team. Introduction (00:09)  From good to outstanding.. CQC visits (01:36) Preparing in advance.. (04:44)  Specifics of a CQC inspection (07:25)  The inspection (08:39) Reaching for 'Outstanding' (14:06)  Changes in the regime (14:29)  Making inspectors feel welcome (16:19) The pressures.. (21:41)  The feedback (22:20)  The 'correct' way to appeal (28:02)  Final thoughts and advice (30:19)  Listen back to our episodes with the Urban Village Medical Practice; About Urban Village Urban Village Strategies to Support Homelessness To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

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