Specific rules for Doctors & GPs

The new NHS Regulations provide that both GMS and PMS contracts can be awarded to companies limited by shares where at least one share in the company is legally and beneficially owned by a medical practitioner and the other share are owned by other qualifying persons (including medical practitioners, healthcare professionals, GMS/PMS providers, NHS/PMS employees or NHS trusts).

It is possible for medical practices to be set up as limited liability companies. the ownership rules for GMS companies are that:

* All Shares in such a company must be legally and beneficially owned by a person who could lawfully enter into a GMS contract as an individual or as part of a partnership.

** At least one share must be legally and beneficially owned by a medical practitioner whose name is in the GP Register (or is suitably experienced).

*** Any other shares owned by a medical practitioner must be so owned by a medical practitioner whose name is included in the GP Register or who is employed by a PCT, a local Health Board, an NHS Trust (including an NHS Trust in Scotland), an NHS Foundation Trust, a Health Board, or a Health and Social Services Trust.