West and Central cluster vacancies
Update: 31/05/2021:
Following a request for a volunteer from the Central cluster area to come forward as a representative, Wathani Savannah has now been confirmed as the newest committee member. We are grateful for the interest in the LMC expressed by colleagues from other cluster areas but on this occasion, no vote was held as the LMC constitution directs that priority be given to a nominee from an under represented cluster. Even with the appointment of Wathani, Central cluster is still short of one regional representative as a result of a historic inability to recruit from a practice within the area.
Update: 26/04/2021:
Following two self-nominations for the West cluster vacancy, an election has been held. As a result, Dr Robert Manson from Peebles will be joining the committee as the new West cluster representative.
Unfortunately, there were no nominations received for the Central cluster vacancy so this position is now available to any GP (salaried or partner) from any cluster to avoid an ongoing committee vacancy. Anyone interested in standing for this position should self-nominate by e-mailing Kirsty Robinson with a note of interest by 6pm on Friday 30th April.
Original Post: 11/03/2021:
The Local Medical Committee (LMC) aims to represent and promote the interests of General Practice in the Borders to the key decision makers in the Health and Care system to ensure that decisions are well informed by our experience in primary care. The LMC represents all GPs at a local level, whatever their contractual status. Crucially, it is independent, allowing it to be effective in standing up for and supporting its GPs. The committee comprises of roughly a dozen representatives with representation from each of the geographical areas within NHS Borders – East, West, Central and South. The committee convenes bimonthly, with representatives also attending GP Subcommittee meetings on the months in between. These meetings offer a valuable and interesting insight into resource allocation, service planning and our interface with secondary care colleagues. By being present and involved in these decision making processes the LMC can support the development of high quality general practice. For the individual, being part of the LMC offers a greater understanding of the structures within health care delivery and how we can influence these bodies for the benefit of our patients and colleagues. GPs from all backgrounds and with any level of experience are welcome to put themselves forward to be an LMC representative. The committee is not only a place for us to work together toward the common goal of improving General Practice in the Borders but also an excellent opportunity to meet people from other practices, share ideas, and learn from one another.
The LMC currently has vacancies for a representative from both the West and Central clusters. This is an exciting opportunity to represent colleagues and the committee welcomes interest from enthusiastic GPs with or without prior experience of medical politics. Interested GPs should email the Secretary (Kirsty Robinson) to self-nominate by 6pm on Friday 26th March. A vote will be held if more than one nomination is received for the cluster.
