Physician Associate

Participate in all treatment and preventative healthcare services within the PCN as delegated and agreed by the Operations Director Provide first point of contact care for patients presenting with undifferentiated, undiagnosed problems, utilising history-taking, physical examinations and clinical decision-making skills to establish a working diagnosis and management plan in partnership with the patient (and their carers where applicable). Undertake face to face, telephone and online consultations for emergency or routine problems, as determined by the Practice, including management of patients with long-term conditions. Participate in all treatment and preventative healthcare services in the Practice as delegated and agreed by the supervising GP(s). Perform diagnostic physical examinations and treatment.

Identify, signpost or refer patients at risk of developing long-term conditions, preventing adverse effects on the patients health. Organise onward investigation, treatment and referral where appropriate. Ensure continuity of care, arranging follow-up consultations or reviews as necessary Attend regular practice clinical meetings. Support the clinical team with all safeguarding matters, in accordance with local and national policies.

Under supervision of the GPs in the practice, make professional, autonomous decisions in relation to presenting problems, whether self-referred or referred from other health care workers within the Organisation. Record clear and contemporaneous IT based consultation notes to an agreed standard. Review and act on laboratory results and clinical communication from Hospitals and other providers. Recognise, assess and refer where appropriate patients presenting with mental health problems.

Understand practice and local policies for substance abuse and addictive behaviour, referring patients appropriately. Be able to justify choice of medication, and support patients in the use of their prescribed medication (within own scope of practice). Be able to understand the impact of comorbidities, other medications and poly-pharmacy. Deliver integrated patient centred care through appropriate working with the wider primary care multi-disciplinary team and social care networks.

Conduct home visits and Care Home visits (following adequate training). Act on alerts (e.g. QOF, local enhanced services etc.) and reminders during a consultation. Assist the practices in achieving their clinical targets and objectives in QOF, Local enhanced services etc.

Participate in continuing professional development opportunities and keep up to date with evidence-based knowledge and competence in all aspects of your role, meeting clinical governance guidelines for continuing professional development (CPD).