The Practice is encouraged to seek support and advice from LMC in the first instance, throughout any dispute.
Where legal advice, including advice on partnership agreements, is required this should be sought from a legal services provider such as the BMA or LMC Law. The LMC has a retainer with LMC Law to provide general legal advice and guidance to practices.
The ICB Delegated team will assess the risk and engage with the practice accordingly.
The ICB will work with the practice to address the quality-of-service provision, (note the ICB will not become involved in a partnership dispute unless it affects the practices’ ability to deliver the contract or patient care. At all times, the ICB will remain neutral and only provide mediation and or support if needed)
Regular reporting oversight implemented by the delegated team commensurate with risk to service provision.
New to partnership – get the process right!
The LMC strongly recommends that all practices have an up-to-date partnership agreement, which is regularly reviewed, especially when new partners join the partnership, to ensure it still meets the needs of the partnership. For the purpose of this guidance, the term (partnership agreement, partnership deed and practice agreement are all the same thing).
The BMA has produced a practical guide for taking on new GP partners.and additional information regarding the importance of an up-to-date GP partnership agreement.
Partnership Agreement
If a practice does not have a partnership agreement which has been drawn up by a legal professional, they could risk that there is a “partnership at will” which is governed by the Partnership Act of 1890.
For further information: Primary Medical Care Policy & Guidance Manual (PGM)(V4), page 364-1.7.54-1.7.57