How to choose a new partner in general practice.

OBJECTIVE To provide a guide to choosing a new partner in general practice by using psychometric assessments. DESIGN A descriptive account of the experience of one practice. SETTING A general practice in Bristol. RESULTS The partners found that using a psychologist to assess both themselves and the candidates facilitated the selection process. During the pre-interview stage the partners learnt about the dynamics of the practice and their own personalities. The examination of the candidates by an outside assessor as well as the partners gave a sense of security and a certainty that mistakes were unlikely to be made. CONCLUSION More practices should consider adopting a selection process using psychometric assessments when appointing a new partner.