This episode features Dr Rachel Morris discussing the impact of stress and burnout on GP partners and PCN Clinical Directors, with a focus on how maintaining job control can help reduce pressure. It also introduces a communication model rooted in empathy, curiosity, and the principle of "highest intent," offering strategies for improving workplace relationships. The importance of trust-building and direct, face-to-face communication is explored as a way to bridge gaps between practices and strengthen collaboration, drawing on Stephen Covey’s principles to turn misunderstanding into teamwork. Join us as we explore how fostering these personal connections can help overcome common challenges, transforming tension into teamwork.

Introduction (00:09)

The stress that leaders are facing.. (00:37)

What can we control? (01:38)

Controlling leaders (03:28)

Avoiding difficult conversations (05:29)

Advice for having difficult conversations (07:28)

When is a problem too large to tackle? (18:34)

Listening & understanding (21:45)

Maintaining relationships within PCNs (24:42)

How & where to hear more from Rachel (28:26)

The Lead Generator for HiFIVE model handout can be found here.

To attend ‘Work Well Live: Prevent Burnout, Boost Retention and Protect Your Time and Energy - A New Approach’ click here.

The replay of ‘FrogFest Virtual 2024 - This Time it's Awkward Recording’ can be found here.

Website - https://youarenotafrog.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drrachelmorris/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rachel-morris/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DrRachelMorris

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@youarenotafrog

Our FREE Am I Stressed, Overwhelmed or Burnt Out Toolkit - https://www.shapestoolkit.com/stressed-overwhelmed-burnout-toolkit

For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

In this week’s episode, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, we welcome back Claire Houston and Ceri Chaplin to explore the major changes to the Quality and Outcomes Framework for the 2025/26 contract, and what they mean for general practice. The episode dives into the removal of income protected indicators and the Quality Improvement domain, marking a shift back to an outcomes driven framework. This change could bring increased financial pressure, making strategic budgeting and achievement planning more important than ever. Beyond QOF, they also discuss the wider challenge of promoting preventative care, with a focus on childhood immunisation targets and cardiovascular disease management. With public trust in vaccinations still recovering post-pandemic, practices will need to innovate to meet targets and boost patient engagement. Tune in for a practical and insightful look at how these updates could reshape the future of general practice.

Introduction (00:08)

The main changes to QOF (00:36)

Stepping back.. (01:49)

Reducing the admin for practices (02:20)

Budgeting.. (03:10)

The risk for practices (04:30)

Are the targets achievable? (06:58)

Advice to practices (09:28)

Do PCNs have a role in this? (12:45)

Retirement of the quality improvement domain (17:28)

The future for QOF (20:41)

A more local focus.. (22:33)

Where to find support.. (25:03)

Book your QOF achievement session below;

QOF Changes 2025/26 (Tuesday 13th May)

QOF Changes 2025/26 (Tuesday 20th May)

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.

In this episode we welcome back Pete Woodward, from Cheadle Medical Practice. Over the past year, Pete has experienced a whirlwind of success, including winning the Practice Manager of the Year Award and stepping into the role of managing partner. He shares insights into the evolution of their innovative triage, The Human Touch, which continues to reduce call wait times and enhance patient satisfaction despite seasonal challenges. Pete's commitment to minor adjustments rather than sweeping changes has been pivotal in maintaining momentum and avoiding change fatigue, ensuring a seamless service delivery. Pete & Ben also explore the strategic side of managing a medical practice, focusing on financial planning. Finally, Pete shares the importance of communication and collaboration in healthcare management. Tune in to hear Pete's valuable experiences and insights as he continues to champion innovation and efficiency in healthcare.

Introduction (00:08)

The Human Touch (01:16)

How are the results looking now? (02:35)

Is winter affecting the results? (03:53)

Updates to the system.. (04:36)

Scaling up.. (05:34)

Have the same results been achieved across other practices? (06:05)

Funding & finances (06:59)

Budgeting for the year (10:13)

Taking action sooner.. (11:10)

How is this managed in the practice? (12:55)

Making a difference (15:03)

Funding via PCNs (16:07)

Financial challenges within practices (17:45)

Financial benefits to be gained from scale (18:56)

Getting in touch (23:25)

Listen to Pete’s previous episode, The Human Touch, here.

To contact Pete directly, please contact him by email here.

For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.