Practice Manager Supporter - Karen Jeffries

Hi, I’m Karen and I have been working in primary care since 1991 so have seen many contractual and organisational changes over the years.

I undertook a BA in Business and Management in 2005 as I was keen not only to formally develop my management skills but also to look beyond the NHS. It proved an extremely rewarding five years studying alongside managers from all sectors and gave me a greater understanding of the wider application of business and management skills.

I have recently retired from Oaks Healthcare in Waterlooville where I was Business Manager for just over eleven years. During my time in post, we took over the list of a small single-handed practice that closed in 2010, moved into purpose-built premises and merged with another local practice in 2017. In 2019, we closed the branch surgery and moved the whole team into one building having negotiated additional GMS space at our existing main site.

I am now working as a freelance PM, helping out practices in need of either operational support or assistance with a specific practice project.

I have been a PM Supporter since 2013 and derive a great deal of satisfaction from being able to help and support other PMs where I can. I don’t profess to know all the answers but will work with PMs to help them find their own solutions. During my time as a PM, I have had the privilege to work alongside some of the most professional, committed and hardworking managers.

In my spare time, I enjoy being active with friends and love an annual challenge whether that’s a new charity cycling event or finding a new long distance walk. I have two grown up girls but still regularly man the mum helpline!

Email: karen.jeffries@nhs.net

Tel: 07919151252