GPs in Wales who were formerly known as Non-Principals are now termed Sessional GPs. This is an umbrella term which includes 'freelance GPs' (locums) and 'salaried GPs' (retainers, assistants and other salaried GPs). The BMA website has a range of information on such issues as salaries, pensions and model contracts for salaried GPs.

The National Association of Sessional GPs (NASGP) also has a very useful range of information relating to Sessional GPs. They produce regular newsletters and give advice on CPD and appraisal as well as covering employment and pension issues. Their website address is www.nasgp.org.uk.

The Department of General Practice has been running a series of educational days for sessional GPs. The programmes are wholly funded by the Department of General Practice. Various topics are covered including:

• Producing a folder for Appraisal
• CPD for sessional GPs
• Emergency Medical Care
• Updates by local hospital consultants on their specialities

Flyers are sent out beforehand with full details. Please see the news page for updates on upcoming meetings.

The North Wales Sessional Gp course is run by Dr Bridget Osborne with support form Kath Barrar. Courses are usually held at Glan Clwyd Postgraduate Centre, Glan Clwyd Hospital.

The South West Wales Sessional Gp course is run by Dr Margaret Ings. Courses alternate between Carmarthen and Llanelli Postgraduate Centres and usually at 1.00pm with lunch, followed by the meeting at 1.30pm.

The South East Wales Sessional Gp course is run by Dr Nimish Shah. Courses alternate between The Village Hotel, Cardiff and Llandough Hospital, and usually start at 2.00pm with lunch before the meeting at 1.30pm.

Sessional GPs are welcome to attend CPD events in their area. Contact details of local CPD co-ordinators can be found here.