#81 - GP Reference Checks.. Are they a thing?

In this episode, Zac Pandur and Ami Assigal break down the realities of GP recruitment and why most clinics get it wrong.

From ineffective reference checks to poor alignment and cultural misfits, this conversation focuses on the practical steps required to hire well and reduce long-term risk when bringing doctors into your practice.

We cover:
• Why traditional reference checks are losing value and where they still matter for GPs
• How to identify early “yellow flags” and manage red flags within the first 6 to 12 months
• Aligning clinical interests, billing style, and expectations before onboarding
• How to run structured, effective reference conversations
• Recruiter vs practice-led reference checks
• Trial periods and ongoing review vs traditional probation
• Cultural fit and personality in long-term success
• Key legal considerations when engaging doctors

We also speak honestly about:
• The lack of transparency across healthcare recruitment
• Why most references are overly positive and lack real insight
• The risk of hiring for convenience rather than alignment
• The long-term cost of cultural misfits

If your practice is hiring or considering bringing on new doctors, this is a necessary reset. Structured recruitment, strong alignment, and disciplined processes are critical to building a stable and high-performing clinical team.