The New PCN Management Competency Framework

Tara Humphrey
Aug 26
3 min read

The PCN Manager role sits in a unique position within primary care. You’re critical to network success, yet operate outside the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) that provides structured guidance for other positions. While pharmacists, social prescribers, and care coordinators have established frameworks, PCN Managers have navigated complex responsibilities without a clear roadmap. Until now.

Introducing the PCN Management Competency Framework Assessment Tool 👇

Image of PCN Management Competency Framework Tool

In partnership with the Primary Care Network Members Club community we’ve developed the first competency framework tool designed specifically for PCN Managers. It allows you to:

Self-assess your competency across 16 critical areas (6 core skills + 10 technical pillars)
Identify development priorities by comparing your confidence with the importance of each skill
Create personalised learning plans with SMART goals and practical activities
Track your progress over time through saved assessments and regular reviews

The framework addresses the unique challenges of PCN management: coordinating across practices, leading without direct authority, and balancing operational efficiency with clinical governance.

Why the PCN Manager Competency Assessment Tool matters

PCN Managers juggle operational oversight, stakeholder engagement, and multi-million-pound budgets. They need skills ranging from healthcare policy knowledge to change management, data analysis, and boundary-spanning leadership. This tool gives you structured guidance where there was none before.

Version 1 of the tool, designed to evolve

We expect the framework to grow with feedback and the continuing development of PCN management roles. It’s a starting point for professionalising PCN management, clarifying expectations, supporting development conversations, and ultimately strengthening network leadership.

Ready to access the PCN Manager Competency Assessment Tool?

If you are already a Primary Care Network member, you can use the PCN Manager Competency Assessment Tool, available on your members’ homepage or via the link below.

PCN Manager Competency Assessment Tool

Not a member yet? Join the Primary Care Network Members Club today for just £497 per year, covering up to 4 users. Gain instant access to the Competency Assessment Tool and a wealth of other resources to support your leadership in primary care.

What's in the Primary Care Network Members Club?

As a member of the Primary Care Network Members Club, you gain access to a comprehensive suite of resources designed to support you in your role:

1-to-1 Sessions and Masterclasses: Receive personalised support and participate in expert-led sessions to deepen your skills and knowledge.
Exclusive Blogs, Guides, and Resources: Access member-exclusive content to help you stay informed and effective in your role.
PCN Salary Calculators and Tools: Utilise tools to streamline funding, workforce planning, and contract delivery with clarity and confidence.
Community Support: Connect with peers who understand the pressures of primary care leadership, share experiences, and access advice when needed most.

Take a look at the Primary Care Network Members Club

Next Members Club Masterclass

📍 Members can register to our next PCN Members Club Masterclass: Navigating Neighbourhood Discussions via the members club home page.

In this 1hr members masterclass, we’ll:

✅ Share neighbourhood experiences

✅ Explore 2–3 facilitation tips for when things get tricky

✅ Discuss extra questions (not shared elsewhere)

About Us

THC Primary Care is an award-winning healthcare consultancy specialising in Primary Care Network Management and the creator of the Business of Healthcare Podcast. With over 20 years in the industry, we've supported more than 200 PCNs through interim management, training, and consultancy.

Our expertise spans project management and business development across both private and public sectors. Our work has been published in the London Journal of Primary Care, and we've authored over 250 blogs sharing insights about primary care networks.