A remote Western Isles medical practice that used the area’s outdoor recreational opportunities to tempt applicants to join it has received three applications for a GP post.
In an attempt to overcome the difficulties involved in recruiting to remote and rural medical jobs, Benbecula Medical Practice highlighted the availability of activities, including sailing, walking, cycling and golf.
And the unusual form of advertising appears to have paid off.
Dr Kate Dawson, who is one of the partners, said: “We were a bit apprehensive because we are aware that recruiting GPs can be difficult, particularly for jobs where there is an expectation that the job will be remote, rural and include community hospital cover and out-of-hours.
“However, because it is a challenging job in a small and well-integrated primary care team, it also has a lot of potential to be stimulating, rewarding and full of opportunities to work at a strategic level as well.”
She added that their advertising, which was supported by NHS Western Isles and included scenic shots of the area, had worked very well.
Dr Dawson said it also included a group shot of the partners and practice staff outside the medical centre “looking friendly”.
She said: “I’m not sure which aspect paid off the best, but we had three applicants before the closing date.
“The applicants are all interested in the extended role that we have, including wanting to be involved with strategic planning of health services to a community and working in a community hospital.
“I think the level of detail in the advertisement that we put out was helpful.”
The advertisement explained that, due to retirement, they were looking for a replacement partner to join the four-partner, 2,350-patient practice, from January 1 next year.
It said: “We are looking for one full-time partner, but are happy to discuss other proposals.
“Our practice is remote and rural, with great opportunities to extend your practice and shape local services within a small team and a small health board.”
It also pointed out the area’s “amazing outdoor recreation opportunities, including sailing, walking, cycling and golf”.
And it stated that the successful applicant would be eligible for a “Golden Hello” – an additional payment made to GPs when they take up their first eligible post in a remote, rural or deprived area.