Practices now have an Extra Appointment Capacity with Additional Roles

Additional Roles in General Practice (ARRS) bring numerous benefits to the healthcare system.

This collaborative approach between GPs and additional clinical roles ultimately leads to better patient care, improved health and wellbeing outcomes, reduced waiting times and a more efficient healthcare system.

These roles also help alleviate the workload of GPs, allowing them to focus on complex cases and patients requiring specialized care.

ARRS professionals, such as physician associates, paramedics, and clinical pharmacists, possess specific skills and expertise that complement the services provided by GPs.

Havering North PCN clinical workforce is constantly expanding, we currently employ:

Social Prescribers 

Social prescribing plays a crucial role in supporting GPs and improving patient well-being. By connecting patients with non-medical resources and community-based support, social prescribing addresses the social determinants of health. This approach recognizes that factors such as loneliness, housing, employment, and lifestyle choices significantly impact overall health outcomes.

Social prescribing enables GPs to refer patients to a range of local services and activities, including exercise classes, support groups, counseling, and volunteering opportunities. By doing so, GPs can provide holistic care that goes beyond traditional medical interventions. Social prescribing empowers patients to take control of their health and well-being, fostering self-management and reducing reliance on medication.

By incorporating social prescribing into their practice, GPs can enhance patient outcomes, improve mental health, and reduce healthcare costs. It promotes a collaborative approach between healthcare professionals, community organizations, and patients

Health & Wellbeing Coaches

Health and wellbeing coaches serve as valuable allies in helping patients achieve their health goals, providing personalized support and guidance throughout their journey towards improved health and well-being.

These coaches are trained professionals who provide guidance, motivation, and support to individuals seeking to make positive changes in their lives.

Health and wellbeing coaches work closely with patients to identify their goals and develop personalized action plans. They help patients set realistic and achievable targets, whether it's adopting healthier eating habits, increasing physical activity, managing stress, or improving sleep patterns.

Coaches provide ongoing support, accountability, and encouragement, helping patients stay motivated and overcome obstacles along the way.

Mental Health Practitioners 

Mental Health Practitioners support patients by providing specialized mental health care and support. 

Their presence within GP practices allows for early identification and intervention of mental health issues, helping patients understand their conditions, coping strategies, and self-management techniques.

This collaborative approach ensures that mental health concerns are addressed promptly and comprehensively, leading to better overall patient outcomes and well-being.

First Contact Physiotherapists 

First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs) play a vital role in supporting GPs and improving patient care within a GP setting. FCPs are highly trained physiotherapists who have advanced skills and expertise in musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions.

Their primary role is to assess, diagnose, provide appropriate advice, and offer evidence-based treatment options, including exercise programs and manual therapy.

By having direct access to FCPs, patients can receive prompt assessment and treatment for their MSK conditions, avoiding unnecessary delays and referrals. This not only saves time for patients but also helps to optimize the use of healthcare resources ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate and timely care for their musculoskeletal conditions.

Clinical Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians Team

• Clinical pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians are highly trained healthcare professionals who work alongside GPs to optimize medication management and improve patient outcomes.

• In collaboration with GPs, they identify and resolve medication-related issues, such as drug interactions, adverse effects, and medication adherence.Patients benefit from enhanced medication management, reduced medication errors, and improved understanding of their medications.

• Their role involves conducting medication reviews, ensuring appropriate prescribing, and providing medication-related advice to both patients and healthcare professionals.

How do I book an appoitment with Additional Role Clinicians?

Contact the practice you are registered with in the normal way, i.e.: by completing the online form on practice website, or by phone.