General practice is a cornerstone of the NHS , providing comprehensive and continuous care to patients. Within Colchester Medical Practice, a diverse team of healthcare professionals works collaboratively to ensure patients receive the best possible care. We know it can be confusing for patients to understand, so here’s a look at the different roles you might encounter on your visit to the surgery-you can read about them all below , or watch a video here.
General Practitioner-(GP)
GPs are medical doctors who diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions. They provide holistic care, considering physical, psychological, and social factors. GPs manage chronic illnesses, offer preventive care, and coordinate with specialists when necessary.
Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP)
ANPs are highly trained nurses who can assess, diagnose, and manage patient care independently. The ANPs at Colchester Medical Practice often have prescribing rights and can manage complex cases, working closely with GPs.
Emergency Care Practitioner (Paramedic Practitioner)
An Emergency Care Practitioner (ECP) is a highly qualified and specialised paramedic who has completed additional education and training to practice at a higher level of clinical expertise. They are able to assess, diagnose, and treat patients independently, in urgent and emergency care settings. ECPs also play a role in education, research, and leadership. Watch a video about Paramedics here
Practice Nurse
Practice nurses work alongside GPs to provide care and treatment. They perform tasks such as immunisations, wound care, health screenings, and chronic disease management. They play a crucial role in patient education and health promotion.
Healthcare Assistant
HCAs support the clinical team by performing tasks such as taking blood samples, measuring vital signs, and assisting with minor procedures. They also help with administrative duties and patient care.
Clinical Pharmacist
Clinical pharmacists in general practice manage medication-related issues, conduct medication reviews, and provide advice on safe and effective medication use. They work to optimise patient treatment plans.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy Technicians play a vital role in ensuring that our prescribing is safe, legal and accurate by monitoring the prescribing , supply and usage of medications. They monitor patients to ensure that the correct blood tests and reviews are carried out at the right time. They deal with patient queries , sort out problems and assist their clinical colleagues.
Health and Wellbeing Coach
Health and Wellbeing Coaches work with patients to support them with health conditions, focussing on behaviour change and assisting them to meet their health improvement goals by using motivational and other change techniques. The aim is to improve overall health outcomes for patients by empowering them to make lifestyle and other changes in their lives.
Receptionist / Care Navigator
A Receptionist (Care Navigator provides) a vital link between patients and the healthcare team, serving as the first point of contact and guiding patients through the healthcare system. They handle appointments, patient information, and various administrative tasks, while also ensuring a positive patient experience. Watch a video about Receptionists here
Social Prescribing Link Worker
Social prescribers can help with a wide range of emotional and practical matters that may be affecting your health and wellbeing. They have expert knowledge on the support services and groups that are active in your local community. By listening to what matters to you, they can help connect you to local groups, services and activities that will support you to make positive changes to your health and wellbeing. Watch a video about Social Prescribing Link Workers here.
Occupational Therapist
Our OT helps patients to overcome barriers to daily life and improve their overall well-being by addressing their physical, mental, and social needs. They work with patients to develop plans that help them re-engage in everyday activities, manage chronic conditions, and improve their independence. OTs are graduate registered healthcare professionals with a high level of training. Watch a video about the role of the OT in a GP Surgery here.
Physiotherapists
Our physiotherapists (sometimes called first contact practitioners) can help patients with musculoskeletal issues such as back, neck and joint pain by assessing and diagnosing issues, giving expert advice on how best to manage their conditions. They generally have extended roles-which means they have undertaken additional expert training in their speciality. Appointments with the Physiotherapists are prompt and easily accessible. Watch a video about Physiotherapists in GP Surgeries here.