DoctorsNursing StaffPractice StaffAdditional Clinicians

Additional Clinicians

First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP)

Is a healthcare professional who specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the muscles, bones, and joints. They use a variety of techniques, including exercise and education, to help patients manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance their overall physical well-being.

Musculoskeletal physiotherapists work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, addressing issues such as sports injuries, arthritis, back pain, and post-operative rehabilitation to optimize their patients' physical function and quality of life.

Paramedics

In a general practice surgery in the UK, a paramedic typically does not have a permanent role. Paramedics are usually associated with emergency medical services (EMS) and respond to acute emergencies. 

Paramedics are highly trained healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of a qualified doctor (General Practitioner). Their responsibilities include:

• Minor Ailments: Providing guidance and treatment for minor ailments and health issues, reducing the burden on GPs.
• Multidisciplinary Teamwork: Collaborating closely with GPs, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and patient-centred care.
• Emergency Response: Responding to 999 calls or emergencies to provide immediate medical assistance and transport patients to hospitals when needed.
• Advanced Life Support: Administering advanced life support interventions, including CPR, defibrillation, and managing critical medical conditions.
• Trauma Care: Stabilizing trauma patients and providing initial care for injuries at the scene of accidents or incidents.
• Pre-Hospital Care: Assessing patients' conditions and providing appropriate treatments before hospital arrival.

Pharmacists

In a general practice surgery in the UK, a pharmacist plays a vital role as part of the healthcare team. They provide a range of services, including medication management and advice. Pharmacist duties typically include:

• Medication Review: Conducting medication reviews for patients to ensure safe and effective use of their prescribed medications, identifying potential drug interactions or adverse effects.
• Prescribing Support: Prescribing certain medications, such as repeat prescriptions and specific medications under a pharmacist's independent prescribing rights.
• Patient Education: Offering patient education on proper medication usage, potential side effects, and lifestyle modifications to optimize treatment outcomes.
• Chronic Disease Management: Assisting in the management of chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and asthma by adjusting medication regimens and monitoring patient progress.
• Minor Ailments: Providing guidance and treatment for minor ailments and health issues, reducing the burden on GPs.
• Quality and Safety: Contributing to medication safety initiatives, ensuring the practice follows best practices in dispensing and medication management.
• Multidisciplinary Teamwork: Collaborating closely with GPs, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and patient-centered care. 

Physician Associate (PA)

In a general practice surgery in the UK, a Physician Associate (PA) plays a crucial role as part of the healthcare team. Physician Associates are highly trained healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of a qualified doctor (General Practitioner). Their responsibilities typically include:

• Patient Assessment: Conducting thorough patient assessments, including medical history taking, physical examinations, and ordering diagnostic tests.
• Diagnosis and Treatment: Assisting in diagnosing and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions, as well as prescribing medications and treatments.
• Consultations: Conducting patient consultations to provide advice, discuss treatment options, and answer questions.
• Preventive Care: Offering health promotion and preventive care services, such as vaccinations, health screenings, and lifestyle counseling.
• Referrals: Making referrals to specialists and other healthcare professionals when necessary, and coordinating the patient's care.
• Follow-up Care: Monitoring patients with chronic conditions and ensuring appropriate follow-up to track progress and adjust treatment plans.
• Administrative Tasks: Managing administrative duties such as maintaining patient records, documenting encounters, and participating in quality improvement initiatives.

Physician Associates in general practice surgeries help improve patient access to healthcare, enhance the efficiency of primary care services, and contribute to comprehensive and patient-centred care. They work closely with General Practitioners to provide high-quality medical care to patients.

Social Prescriber

A Social Prescriber, plays a vital role in addressing patients' non-medical needs and improving their overall well-being. Their responsibilities include:

• Assessing Social Needs: Conducting assessments to understand patients' social and non-medical needs, such as loneliness, housing issues, financial difficulties, or mental health concerns.
• Connecting to Resources: Identifying appropriate community resources, services, and support organisations to address the patient's specific needs.
• Referrals: Making referrals to community-based services, including support groups, counselling services, exercise classes, or local charities.
• Support and Follow-up: Providing ongoing support, follow-up, and encouragement to ensure patients are effectively accessing and benefitting from the recommended services.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborating with healthcare professionals, including GPs and nurses, to provide holistic care and address both medical and social determinants of health.

Social Prescribers contribute to a more comprehensive and patient-centred approach to healthcare by addressing the social factors that can impact health outcomes and overall well-being. Their work helps patients access the support and resources they need to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.