The Midas touch?

OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that GP trainees are worth their weight in gold. DESIGN Data collected from 100 consecutive patients analysed with reference to practice statistics, fees, and allowances. SETTING General practice, Edinburgh. RESULTS In the year April 1992 to April 1993 the trainee saw 3439 patients, who were worth over 18,000 pounds in capitation fees. The training grant is 4570 pounds, the trainee performed child health surveillance worth 1000 pounds, and items of service fees earned more than 8500 pounds. The trainee brought over 31,000 pounds into the practice in one year. CONCLUSION Trainees are (almost) worth their weight in gold.