January 2024 Newsletter

Dear Belmatt Healthcare Training Community,

We hope this newsletter finds you well as we kick off another year of serving the healthcare industry with the latest updates and information. In this edition, we’re focusing on the recent developments in healthcare in the United Kingdom, particularly in the fields of advanced practice, nurse practitioners, paramedics, and pharmacists working in general practice.

Advanced Practice in the UK: Elevating Patient Care

2024 brings exciting developments in advanced practice in the UK. The National Health Service (NHS) has been actively promoting advanced practice roles, encouraging nurses and allied health professionals to expand their skills and take on more responsibilities. This initiative aims to enhance patient care, reduce wait times, and address the growing demand for healthcare services. Last year our Primary Care conference included a multi disciplinary group of individuals discussing the latest updates in primary care. Join our next webinar on 18 April 2024.

Nurse Practitioners Paving the Way

Nurse practitioners continue to play a pivotal role in primary care settings. In 2024, the role of nurse practitioners in general practice has evolved significantly to become GP partnerships, leaders in health strategy and mentors to colleagues and the allied healthcare professionals. Join our practitioner WhatsApp group with a chance to win a certificate and the Nerd Spoon for best case discussion or answer. The group is a community of clinicians working in primary care and discussing minor ailment presentations.

Paramedics in General Practice: A Growing Trend

The integration of paramedics into general practice has become increasingly prevalent. These highly skilled professionals are now working alongside GPs to provide urgent care, home visits, and triage services. I have personally seen the successful integration of different professions into the multidisciplinary team. https://belmatt.co.uk/courses/chonic-disease-management-in-primary-care/

Pharmacists: More Than Medication Dispensers

Pharmacists are becoming integral members of general practice teams. Their role extends beyond traditional medication management, with a focus on medication reviews, chronic disease management, and patient education. As part of the delivery plan to recover access to primary care,  an Investment of up to £645 million over the next two years to expand community pharmacy services was discussed. Pharmacy First will commence on 31 January 2024. There have been concerted efforts to ensure an appropriate IT service is in place allowing transfer of consultation record to general practice. However, developing confidence in history taking and assessing and treating patients, identifying red flags and providing worsening care advice requires experience and practice. Belmatt will be running a series of examination skills masterclasses and a Minor Illness course at 1 Wimpole Street in London from 27-29 February 2024. This practical course focusses on developing a structured approach to assessing and treating minor ailments and clinical decision-making. https://belmatt.co.uk/courses/minor-illness-course-27-28-29-february-2024/

We have also tailored our Blood Results Interpretation Course to include 3 speakers: a GP/A&E consultant, a pharmacist and a diabetes specialist nurse to explore interpretation of bloods in general practice.

2024: A Year of Collaboration and Innovation

In 2024, these healthcare professionals are coming together to form more collaborative teams within general practice settings. Interprofessional communication and teamwork are becoming the norm, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.

As we move forward, Belmatt Healthcare Training is committed to providing the latest training and education resources to support the evolving roles of these professionals. We offer a wide range of courses and workshops designed to keep you at the forefront of healthcare advancements.

Stay tuned for our upcoming webinars and training opportunities, specifically designed to help you excel in your respective roles and contribute to the continued improvement of healthcare in the UK. Subscribe to our page to receive alerts www.belmatt.co.uk or become a member,

Thank you for being a part of the Belmatt Healthcare Training community. Together, we can make a difference in patient care and healthcare outcomes.

Wishing you a healthy and prosperous 2024.

Sincerely, Jeshni Amblum-Almer, Course Director, Belmatt Healthcare Training