COVID-19 Update 

statement from the FIPO Chairman, Mr. Richard Packard

On behalf of the Federation of Independent Practitioner Organisations Executive, I would like to extend our thoughts to everyone in this time of uncertainty and trauma, particularly our gratitude to those working tirelessly across all sectors to combat the virus, tend to those suffering and supporting the public with essential goods and services. Please do your part to help stop the spread of the Corona virus by adhering to Government guidelines: wash your hands, employ social distancing where necessary to go outside otherwise stay indoors.

Protect others and protect yourselves.

There are a number of briefings being published which are of relevance and interest to those in private practice during these troubled times. Please see below a number of sources, which we at FIPO have found helpful, and which some of you may have already seen.

  • Independent Practitioner Today has added more information to its website to help support your business.

Visit the website and click on News to view the latest three articles from Stanbridge Associates’ specialist medical accountant Vanessa Sanders or use the links below:

Can the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme help you?

What you need to know about the Job Retention Scheme

Will you qualify for the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme?

  • The Medical Protection Society has added links on its website providing guidance to those in the sector on protection as well as advice to a range of questions from individual consultants. Please use the link below to access these: 

https://www.medicalprotection.org/uk

 

As you are aware, the situation is changing rapidly and the FIPO Executive will be discussing the implications with all Council Members as soon as we are able to do so. Relationships with the PMIs and hospital providers will undoubtedly be changed in the longer term and we will need to ensure that the principles eschewed by FIPO’s Patient Charter are recognised.

Take care and stay safe.