Gain access to key people
Unless you are great at marketing, it’s difficult to influence and engage with someone you are unable to see or communicate directly with. GPs are inundated with hundreds of emails a day, and unless you are lucky, they are unlikely to reply to an unsolicited email from you.
Some of us may be familiar with trying to book a meeting with a GP partner and being blocked by a senior receptionist. Others are lucky enough to see the practice manager, but struggle to get any further. These individuals are ‘gatekeepers’ and their role is more important than you think. Aim to build a rapport with these individuals; pop into the surgery to collect prescriptions at least once a week.
Activity
Explore how your local general practice operates.
Have a look at the practice website:
- Who are the key decision-makers?
- Who has the authority, budget and motivation to partner with you?
- Who are the gatekeepers preventing you from seeing the decision-makers?
- Is there anyone who can introduce you to the practice, eg practice or CCG pharmacists? Do you have an established relationship with another GP?
- Can they be your advocate?