ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines how an interested and able GP can achieve the goal of becoming a provider of surgical services. Prior to the reforms of recent years, GPs performing surgical work outside their own practice population were a rarity. Health authorities did not place work outside their directly managed units, and local private units employed only specialist surgeons. The potential provider's prices will need to be competitive. Where the alternative is an NHS Trust, there should not be a problem for the provider, because his overheads and intended profit margin will be lower. Nursing staff must be trained in control of infection procedures, and cleaning staff must be instructed in room-cleaning procedures. A potential provider must acquire all necessary equipment, including surgical instruments, hyfrecators, cryosprays and cautery machines, plus surgical gowns and gloves. Provision of resuscitation equipment will be important and the purchaser may wish to stipulate that staff undergo regular training.
