Wessex LMCs Podcasts

Access Matters: Protecting Patient Information in General Practice

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Following the issue of NHSE guidance on 'stopping unlawful access to medical records’ , this podcast offers a practical discussion on patient confidentiality, lawful access to medical records, and what the latest guidance means for general practice. We explore common scenarios, smartcard security, staff responsibilities, and how practices can safeguard patient information while delivering excellent care. With guest speaker Caroline Sims, Primary Care IG Consultant.

Guidance: https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/information-governance/guidance/stopping-unlawful-access-to-records/guidance-for-health-and-care-professionals

Wessex LMCs PM Update - 02 September 2026

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 08:48:31 +0100

An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.

Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording.

Wessex LMCs PM Update - 19 Aug 2026

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 08:41:35 +0100

An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.

Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording.

Demystifying GP Lease Renewals

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 08:00:00 +0100

GP lease renewals can be a daunting prospect as they can feel full of legal jargon, financial considerations, and uncertainty about what comes next. In this podcast Michelle Lombardi, Director of Primary Care, discusses with Adam Thompson from Primary Care Surveyors the lease renewal process, explaining what practices need to know, and sharing practical advice to help you make informed decisions about your premises and your future.

The Pharmacy–General Practice Interface: Working Better Together

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 08:00:00 +0100

In this podcast, Dr Will Howard, Medical Director of Wessex LMCs, talks to Alison Freemantle from the Local Pharmacy Committee (LPC), about what’s really happening in community pharmacy and what it means for general practice. They explore the reality of Pharmacy First, the role of community pharmacy in managing minor illness, the pressures currently facing pharmacists and their teams, and some of the tensions that can arise between the two professions. Most importantly, they discuss how GPs and community pharmacists can work more closely and effectively together, and what we can do locally to make the interface between general practice and pharmacy work better for patients and for both professions.

Wessex LMCs PM Update - 05 Aug 2026

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 14:09:09 +0100

An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.

Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording.

Technostress

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Technology has transformed general practice, but what impact is it having on the people using it every day?

In this podcast, Laura Edwards, GP and Joint CEO of Wessex LMCs, is joined by Dr Francesca Dakin, Senior Researcher in Digital Health at the University of Oxford, to discuss a study exploring the hidden side of technology use in primary care.

Wessex LMCs PM Update - 09 July 2026

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:01:28 +0100

An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.

Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording.

Talking General Practice: Online Consultations and Digital Access

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Dr Laura Edwards, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs, talks with Dr Francesca Dakin, Senior Researcher in Digital Health at Oxford University, about the positives and the downsides of the new fascination with online consultation and digital access.

Coronary Artery Calcification on screening Lung CT Scans: What Should GPs Do?

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Coronary artery calcification is increasingly being reported on CT scans performed as part of Targeted Lung Health Checks. But what does it mean for patients, and how should primary care respond?

In this podcast Dr Will Howard, GP and Medical Director at Wessex LMCs, speaks with Dr Os Alsanjari, Consultant Cardiologist at Basingstoke Hospital, about the clinical significance of incidental coronary artery calcification and its implications for cardiovascular risk management.

Designed for GPs and other patient-facing primary care clinicians, this practical discussion explores how to interpret these findings, answer patients' questions with confidence, and support shared decision-making when CT results identify coronary artery calcification.

Wessex LMCs PM Update - 25 June 2026

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 09:21:14 +0100

An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.

Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording.

Clean Air in Practice: Supporting Patients, Staff and Ourselves

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Louise Greenwood (Director of Education and Training at Wessex LMCs) talks to Bea Udale-Smith from The Environment Centre. They chat about how clinicians can help their patients in consultations, social prescribers can signpost patients to resources, how managers can help staff – and how we can all help ourselves. It is not just about our lungs - air pollution can affect so much more. Find out how to become a clean air champion, undertake a module to learn more and take home some handy tips for living with cleaner air.

Wessex LMCs PM Update - 10 June 2026

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 08:59:33 +0100

An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.

Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording.

Building Confidence in Digital Risk

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 08:00:00 +0100

In this podcast Dr Will Howard (Wessex LMCs Medical Director and GP) explores the basics of Digital Risk in the first part of a series around Digital Risk Management for practices. He is joined by Dr Keith Gomes Pinto who is a GP, and also leads Dorset ICB in the digital risk sphere, and they discuss why GP practices need to consider digital risk, why now, and how can practices start to approach, and risk assess their own digital solutions in this world of accelerating AI fuelled solutions. Future editions in this series will include more detailed considerations of the standards we are being asked to meet, including medical device accreditation, as well as more in depth discussions about the Clinical Safety Officer (CSO) role.

IGPM: Supporting Practice Managers & National Practice Manager Day

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0100

Mark Tyrrell and Lisa Fall from the Institute of General Practice Management (IGPM) join us at the PM Update webinar to discuss how the IGPM can support and empower practice managers at a national level. They explore the resources, guidance, and community available, and highlight the launch of the first National Practice Manager Day.

Summary of Latest Changes – Wessex LMCs Newsletter 7th April 2026

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:28:32 +0100

Dr Laura Edwards and Dr Andy Purbrick (Wessex LMCs Joint CEOs), talk through the latest content of the newsletter sent out this week (7th April) including reflections on the PCN DES, SFE, QOF and Neighbourhood framework, together with an update on the DDRB, the latest GPCE meeting and a reminder to complete our members survey.

Read the newsletter here: https://www.wessexlmcs.com/newsletter/wessex-lmcs-newsletter-tuesday-7th-april-2026/

GP Contract 2026/27 Webinar 04-03-26

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 09:02:37 +0000

Our CEOs Dr Laura Edwards and Dr Andy Purbrick talk through the new contract release and the associated controversies that have already arisen before the contract has even started.

The GP Contract 2026 / 2027

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:21:11 +0000

Our CEOs Dr Laura Edwards and Dr Andy Purbrick talk through the new contract release and the associated controversies that have already arisen before the contract has even started. Hear the headlines of the new contract and their views on it.

GPs - Is your Pension Record Up to Date?

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 10:34:46 +0000

In this podcast, Dr Laura Edwards, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs, is joined by Dr Edd Rendell, Medical Director, to raise awareness that over half of GPs in England do not have an up-to-date pension record. Hear about clear, step-by step guidance from the BMA about how to get your record updated and why this is important.

https://www.bma.org.uk/pay-and-contracts/pensions/additional-pensions-advice/guidance-for-gps-in-england-on-getting-your-pension-record-up-to-date

Talking General Practice: Dr Andy Purbrick on GP Pressures and a Live Question to Wes Streeting

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:58:28 +0000

Dr Andy Purbrick, Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, had the opportunity to talk to BBC Radio Wiltshire about the challenges facing General Practice and posed a question live to the Health Secretary, Wes Streeting. Listen back to the recording from 22nd January 2026.

It’s good to have someone to walk alongside you...

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Louise Greenwood (Director of Education & Training) talks to Sue Scott (previous PM Supporter) about what specifically PM Supporters can do for PMs. If you are a PM, a deputy, or a PCN Manager do listen and hear how our PM Supporters can help with finance, HR, workflow and so much more. It can be a small problem or a big challenge – the PMs have walked in your shoes and can confidentially help in so many ways.

Do get in touch with one of them or with Louise to find out more.

Behind the Festive Cheer: Talking Support, Pressure and Wellbeing

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 09:15:52 +0000

Christmas is often portrayed as a time of joy and celebration, but for many people it can bring added pressure, loneliness, financial strain, and emotional challenges. Dr Laura Edwards, Joint CEO, speaks to Louise Greenwood, Director of Education, about the resources and guidance available to offer routes to support throughout the festive season.

https://www.wessexlmcs.com/wellbeing-support-this-christmas/

Our Letter to the Secretary of State

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:39:16 +0000

Dr Laura Edwards and Dr Andy Purbrick, Joint CEOs of Wessex LMCs, discuss this letter that was sent on behalf of Wessex Constituents to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on the 9th December 2025. The letter has been copied to all MPs across Wessex. This was our response to the letter that was sent to all GPs by Wes Streeting on 27th November 2025.

Wessex LMCs Ltd remains committed to supporting and representing you at a local, regional, and national level. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your teams for your commitment and dedication in continuing to deliver the best general practice for our communities.

Enhanced Services and Contracts – what are these and what influence do these have on the nursing team?

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Contracts underpin all we do in the practice – including care in the treatment room. Lisa Harding (Director of Primary Care) & Zoe Tobin (previous Nurse Advisor) talk to Louise Greenwood (Director of Education & Training) about the importance to the nursing team of understanding how the contracts work. The contracts can affect the treatment that the nursing team give, the equipment that they use and the education that they need. And this understanding can assist in conversations with patients. Do listen to find out more and share with all members of the nursing team.

Pain Services Explained: A Conversation for GPs

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:12:03 +0000

In this podcast, Dr Will Howard, Medical Director at Wessex LMCs, is joined by Cathy Price, a Pain Medicine Consultant with over 25 years of experience. Together, they explore current pain services and how GPs can make the most of them, discuss how to identify appropriate patients for referral, and consider the value of a multidisciplinary approach.

Useful Links:

British Pain Society - https://www.britishpainsociety.org/

Live Well with Pain - https://livewellwithpain.co.uk/

Persistent Pain - https://hiowhealthcare.nhs.uk/msk/our-services/persistent-pain

Consent for a vaccine – who has to do this and how?

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 16:00:01 +0000

Dr Will Howard (Medical Director) chats to Kerry March (Deputy Director of Primary Care) and Zoe Tobin (previous Nurse Advisor) following the publication of a recent document from UKSHA. They look at informed consent and consent to administer a vaccine and explore the situations that might arise in practice when nurses and HCAs are running vaccination clinics.

If you enjoyed this podcast and found it useful, please do listen to What exactly are PGDs & PSDs? And why are they important?

Please visit our webpage here : UKHSA clarification on Healthcare Support Workers and Informed Consent for Immunisation

What exactly are PGDs & PSDs? And why are they important?

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 15:58:41 +0000

Louise Greenwood (Director of Education & Training) asks Kerry March (Deputy Director of Primary Care) and Zoe Tobin (previous Nurse Advisor) what exactly are PGDs & PSDs? And why are they important? During the discussion, the legal importance of these directives and their practical application is analysed in addition to how they are used and why. Delegated responsibility & consent are among the topics scrutinised during their conversation.

If you enjoyed this podcast and found it useful, please do listen to Consent for a vaccine – who has to do this and how?

Please visit our webpage here : UKHSA clarification on Healthcare Support Workers and Informed Consent for Immunisation

Insights from the Wessex Maternal Medicine Network

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 15:39:42 +0000

The Wessex Maternal Medicine network coordinates and supports care for women across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire to improve outcomes for women with medical conditions detected before, during and after pregnancy.

In this episode, we explore the latest developments, guidance, and collaborative efforts shaping maternal medicine across the region including:

The evolution of the Maternal Medicine Network and its role in improving continuity of care.
Updates on regional pathways, education, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Valuable perspectives on delivering safe, compassionate, and joined-up care for women across Wessex.

Useful Resources:

UKTIS (UK Teratology Information Service) - https://uktis.org/ or phone 0344 892 0909

BUMPS (Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy) - https://www.medicinesinpregnancy.org/

LactMed (Drugs and Lactation Database) - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/

Healthier Together (pregnancy and birth page on pre-existing conditions ) - https://www.healthiertogether.nhs.uk/pregnancy-and-birth#existing-conditions

Healthier Together (professionals page) - https://www.healthiertogether.nhs.uk/professional

Remote Consulting – unseen complexities?

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:30:00 +0100

Dr Laura Edwards and Dr Rebecca Payne talk through some in depth research that has been done looking at remote consulting in General Practice. They highlight some of the complexities the medium brings together with how practices might use the developed resources to have powerful conversations about minimising any risks to patient safety. You can find the resources referred to here: https://www.phc.ox.ac.uk/research/groups-and-centres/interdisciplinary-research-in-health-sciences/remote-by-default-2/Remote-by-Default-2-project-resources

The NHS App

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 08:30:00 +0100

Louise Greenwood (Director of Education, Wessex LMCs) talks to Matthew Miller-Hall, Digital & Facilities Manager, Chawton Park Surgery and NHS App Ambassador about the NHS App. Have you got the NHS App? Have you downloaded it and then forgotten all about it? Louise and Matthew discuss the benefits of using the App for patients & practices and how to encourage more patients to use it. It can save everyone time and money!

Download the NHS App toolkit campaign at: https://www.england.nhs.uk/south-east/info-professionals/south-east-region-primary-care-transformation-programme/introduction/communications-for-primary-care-providers/nhs-app-toolkit-campaign/

Community Pharmacy - is the grass greener?

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 08:37:47 +0100

Our Joint CEO Dr Laura Edwards talks to Artur Pysz from Community Pharmacy Hampshire and Isle of Wight about understanding pharmacy a bit more and the current challenges they are facing in their sector. At a time where General Practice and community pharmacies are expected to work closer together listen in to learn about the balance of commercial and NHS work and how their sector is feeling.

A Summary of the Spending Review & NHS 10-Year Plan

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 14:59:24 +0100

Dr Laura Edwards leads us through the spending review and first thoughts about the NHS 10 Year Plan. Laura discusses themes with Dr Andy Purbrick and both Wessex Joint CEOs take questions from the audience at the PM webinar on 29th July.

Download the accompanying slides and documents here: www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/

Raising the Profile of PMs at National Level

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:33:40 +0100

Ed Kennedy, Managing Partner at Wickham Surgery, and Director at IGPM (Institute of General Practice Management) talks to Louise Greenwood, Director of Education & Training at Wessex LMCs, about raising the profile of PMs at national level. The Directors of IGPM were invited to the Houses of Parliament to speak to the Health and Social Care Select Committee about the NHS 10-year Plan. Listen to how their meeting went – and if you are a PM, you might want to consider joining this, a-political organisation that wants PMs to be in every conversation about general practice at every level.

Smart, Safe, and Scalable: Bringing AI & Automation into Primary Care

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 10:56:59 +0100

In this podcast, Louise Greenwood (Director of Education & Training) talks to Dr Sam Robinson (GP & PCN Clinical Director) and Lucy Hitchcock (PCN Manager) from Minerva Primary Care Network (PCN) in Bath and NE Somerset (BaNES). Sam and Lucy have introduced a number of Ai, Automative and non-digital innovations within their PCN. They discuss total triage, Ambient Scribe, Workflow Automation and Automatic Processing of Lab Results. They have some fascinating insights but also share in a pragmatic, practical ways that make their changes seem achievable for others who are not as far along this journey. They stress the need to bring governance issues and patients along with you at every stage!

A Reading of the Executive Summary of the 10 Year Plan

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 08:54:02 +0100

At Wessex LMCs we realise that many of you are too busy to read long documents. We believe the 10 year plan is essential reading but at 168 pages - very long. The Executive Summary is extremely helpful to get a good enough feel for most of the content. To help you stay informed therefore we have recorded, verbatim, without comment or endorsement the Executive Summary of the 10-year plan so that you can access this vital content in a convenient way. Analysis and comment on the content will come in due course from the LMC team.

As ever with the possibility of change there is the possibility of threats but also opportunity. Knowledge is power. Listen to the content and give yourself the foundation to build an informed opinion.

The full plan can be viewed here: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6866387fe6557c544c74db7a/fit-for-the-future-10-year-health-plan-for-england.pdf

Seeing Things Clearly – Understanding Opticians and their Services

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:30:00 +0100

Dr Laura Edwards, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs, and Bryony Allen, Chair of Hampshire Local Optical Committee, discuss all things relating to opticians.

How are they trained?
Who can receive NHS services?
Why can’t opticians refer directly?
How are things in the world of optometry?

All this and more...

Processing Lab Results Automatically – is it a good idea?

Wed, 28 May 2025 08:30:00 +0100

In the fifth podcast of our Innovation Series, we take a look at whether innovation using technology and automation is suitable for all practices. Jenny Partridge (Innovation Manager, Kent, Surrey, Sussex) speaks to Practice Manager Shaun Austin-Bailey about how to position trying new ways of working if the practice staff are comfortable working in a traditional way. They discuss lab results automation, how safe it is clinically, and how you can find out more about automation to assure yourself on its effectiveness.

Non-clinical uses of automation and AI are often an easier place to start and build confidence in the benefits of technological solutions; for example helping patients to register more easily or providing website assistants to help patients navigate to the services they need.

Hepatitis C – a good news story

Thu, 22 May 2025 08:30:00 +0100

Professor Ryan Buchanan (Wessex Clinical Hepatitis C Lead) and Dr Nicholas Ballantyne (Wessex Clinical Hepatitis C GP Champion) talk to Dr Laura Edwards (Joint CEO Wessex LMCs) about the complete transformation in treatment approach and outcomes for Hepatitis C and talk about the possibility of elimination of this disease. Listen to this good news story and share the positive message.

Look at HepCulater: https://www.hepculater.com/ for more resources and for self referral for free NHS testing and follow up for your patients.

Innovation Solutions - what problems do I need to solve?

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:30:00 +0100

This is the fourth episode in our Innovation podcast series.

Alex Kimber, Managing Partner at The Grove Medical Centre & Wessex PM Supporter is keen to use innovation to find solutions. Alex talks to Jenny Partridge, Innovation Manager at Health Innovation Kent, Surrey, Sussex about the recording of consultations, registration processes & an efficient use of time using meeting-recording software. As ever change management and the funding of innovation is discussed and the podcast is hosted by Louise Greenwood, Director of Education & Training, Wessex LMCs.

Innovation Success Stories

Fri, 16 May 2025 08:45:00 +0100

Introducing a new product or way of working can be seen as the way to fix a problem, but why is it that an innovation that works well for one practice does not work so well for a neighbouring practice?

What is it that helps an innovation be introduced successfully?

In the third of our innovation podcast series, Jenny Partridge, Innovation Manager at Health Innovation Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Louise Greenwood, Director of Education & Training at Wessex LMCs discuss some of the findings from discussions with practices who have all implemented the same innovation, but with widely varying results. Learn what you can do to help ensure that the innovation you introduce works well.

Automation of admin tasks – examples of products & further reading

Tourette's Syndrome and the role of the GP

Thu, 15 May 2025 08:30:00 +0100

In this podcast, Zoe Tobin, Previous Nurse Advisor for Wessex LMCs is kindly joined by Dr Kate Szymankiewicz, a GP in a Wiltshire practice, with a specialist interest in Tourette's syndrome and young people’s mental health, to raise awareness around the syndrome and in particular the role of the GP in the patient’s journey and diagnosis, the podcast will cover:

What is Tourette’s Syndrome - is there a known cause, other co- existing conditions and associated stigma and challenges of living with the syndrome
How do you diagnose - when do the symptoms first present, can this develop at anytime to anyone, what is the difference between experiencing ‘ticks’ and a diagnosis of Tourette’s Syndrome
How can we support the individual and family post diagnosis - impact a diagnosis can bring for the individual and their family, strategies to support them.
What support is available for the individual and their families - where can we signpost for further support.
Where can I access learning support as a clinician - e-learning modules and further resources.

Supporting resources:

e-learning modules:

TA website Tourettes Action eLearning Module (tourettes-action.org.uk)
NHS Learning Hub - Resource (learninghub.nhs.uk)

Tourette’s Action homepage: https://www.tourettes-action.org.uk/

Functional symptoms: https://neurosymptoms.org/en/

Implementing Smart Triage

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 08:45:00 +0100

This is the second in our series on Innovation led by Jenny Partridge, Innovation Manager at Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex.

Smart triage is one solution to the problem faced in general practice of balancing patients’ clinical needs with practice clinical capacity. It is a way of automating the triage process, allocating patient appointments based on their clinical need and approved patient pathway, saving clinical and admin time in the triage and reception process.

This podcast discusses why you might consider implementing smart triage, how you could justify it, and shares some tips for implementation. Hear from Cathie Sims, a practice manager who implemented a smart triage system recently and the positive impact this has had on her practice, both for patients and staff. Dan Ferrett, a Practice Manager & Practice Manager Supporter, is considering smart triage & explores the concerns about making such a change, including patient safety, accessibility for all patients and data security questions.

Automation of admin tasks – examples of products & further reading

An Introduction to AI & Automation in General Practice

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:32:27 +0100

In the first of our series of innovation podcasts, two PM Supporters Jenny Partridge & Sue Scott discuss how and why AI & Automation can make general practice more effective. Jenny is the Innovation Manager from Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex and answers questions posed by Sue such as – how do you start in this daunting world of AI? Jenny identifies some quick wins - registrations, repeat prescriptions and lab results and suggests what your next steps might be. Sue and Jenny also look at change fatigue and how to introduce innovation when the team is at full capacity.

Automation of admin tasks- examples of products & further reading

Case study: Transforming primary care access and efficiency through Smart Triage

An evaluation of Rapid Health’s Smart Triage at The Groves Medical Centre

eGPlearning - eGPlearning (episodes 488 & 489)

Administrative triage using digital tools in General Practice - elearning for healthcare

Innovation Checklist: Innovations and New Ways of Working - Wessex LMCs

Digital Resources Hub | Health Innovation Wessex

Innovation Portal - Health Innovation South West

Equity in Action: The Role of Reasonable Adjustments

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 10:01:49 +0100

In this podcast, Zoe Tobin, previous Nurse Advisor at Wessex LMCs, is kindly joined by Karen Hawksworth, registered nurse, and course leader for adult nursing at Southampton Solent University and HIOW Autism Ambassador. They discuss reasonable adjustments including;

What do we mean by a reasonable adjustment?
What does the law say about reasonable adjustments?
Examples of reasonable adjustments
Examples of how reasonable adjustments have worked well or not been effective
How do we overcome the risk of in-direct discrimination?
Sources of support and guidance

Related resources:

B0467_i_sensory-friendly-resource-pack.pdf

Professionals- National Autistic Society

GP Surgery | Mencap

LeDeR Report 2022

Autism Ambassador Scheme for Hampshire, Portsmouth, Southampton and Isle of Wight

Practice Supervisor / Assessor role- supporting Student Nurses in General Practice

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 15:24:12 +0100

In this podcast, Zoe Tobin (previous Nurse Advisor) is joined by Gemma Burley, Registered Nurse, and course lead for the Foundation degree in Health & Social Care at Southampton Solent University. They discuss the role of the Practice Supervisor (PS) and Practice Assessor (PA) in supporting nursing students in general practice.

This podcast covers:

Why the PS/PA was introduced by the NMC, in place of the ‘sign off mentor’ role
The difference between the PS & PA roles and the role of the Academic Assessor (AA)
Accountability concerns- around the use of the term ‘proficiencies’ and recognised lack of available support and training for PS/PA in general practice
Training and support available for PS/PAs
Tips on how to support a struggling student- role of the PA/AA, action plans and reasonable adjustments
Benefits of having a student nurse in practice.

Practice Assessor Training, Wednesday, June 4 · 9am - 5pm, Find out more and book here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/practice-assessor-training-tickets-1292648359039?aff=oddtdtcreator

Tuberculosis in Primary Care

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 08:30:00 +0000

In this podcast, Dr Andy Purbrick, Wessex LMCs Joint CEO is joined by David Thomas, TB Consultant Nurse from University Hospital Dorset.

They discuss important aspects of Tuberculosis (TB), particularly focusing on the rise in TB cases, screening, risk factor groups and common signs and symptoms associated with the disease.

Smartphones and our children – what you need to know

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 09:23:13 +0000

Dr Laura Edwards, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs, discusses this hot topic with Dr Helen Thomas.

What is your child doing with their smartphone?
What are teenagers doing?
Just how bad are these devices for their health? - and what can we actually do?

Hear about Helen’s inspiring work and steps that you can take. An eye opening listen!

Winter Readiness - Infection Prevention and Control

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 09:11:54 +0000

In this podcast Zoe Tobin, (previous Nurse Advisor) is joined by Connie Timmins and Jenny Bennett- Britton, IPC Leads for BSW ICB to discuss all things Infection Prevention and Control (IP&C) in terms of the challenges we face this winter in primary care and tips on how to manage any potential concerns or infections.

This podcast covers:

Current circulating infections (such as influenza, Covid and RSV) that we are managing in primary care
Potential community outbreaks and care homes
Practical solutions for practices, including PPE, IP&C measures, patient placement etc
Management of staff with confirmed or suspected respiratory infections

Resources:

NHS England » National infection prevention and control manual (NIPCM) for England

NHS England » National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness

Infection Prevention and Control in General Practice - Wessex LMCs

Mpox - Wessex LMCs- although not covered in podcast, some great resources and updates shared by Connie & Jenny available here

Top Tips on dealing with haematology in General Practice

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 08:45:00 +0000

Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Andy Purbrick, is joined by Dr Jason Mainwaring, Consultant Haematologist to discuss top tips on dealing with haematology in General Practice.

As referenced in this discussion, please see Jason’s document covering common advice and guidance for GPs here: HAEMATOLOGY GP ADVICE AND GUIDANCE 2024.pdf

The Financial Challenges and Realities of Becoming a GP Partner

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Wessex LMCs presents a podcast on the financial challenges and realities of becoming a GP Partner. Dr Will Howard, a GP Partner for 22 years and a Medical Director at Wessex LMCs chats with Peter Farrier, a Director at Morris Crocker Accountants, a Medical Specialist Accountant. The pair talk through starting out as a Partner, tax planning, mid-career opportunities and retirement planning, amongst other areas. We hope you find the information they share useful.

Safe Working - it's transformational

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:00:40 +0000

Need to re-charge, refresh and re-imagine? Do listen to Dr Steph Carter and Dr Claire Hodgekiss discuss improving access for patients and taking back control. Steph's practice created a better workplace culture as the team worked together to improve capacity and care. Claire's practice took back control of the daily contacts to improve care. Dr Laura Edwards encourages you to listen as the New Year approaches.

Awareness and Support around Drink Spiking

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Dr Laura Edwards, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs, speaks with Helena Conibear, Founder and CEO of the Talk About Trust (formally the Alcohol Education Trust). The Talk About Trust is a charity which works to keep young people safe around alcohol ,vaping, cannabis and other substances.

They discuss the ongoing issue of drink spiking including:

The latest stats on how many people are affected
Common substances used for spiking
The effects of drink spiking
How to report drink spiking & the support available

https://life-stuff.org/spiking-what-to-do/ - Information for victims of spiking and what people should do if they have been spiked.

https://www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/support-around-drink-spiking/Support around Drink Spiking -

The Financial Burden on GP Practices

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:15:20 +0000

Wessex LMCs Joint CEO Dr Laura Edwards talks to BBC Radio Solent about the significant threat to GP Practices with the rise in National Insurance contributions.

Laura also highlights the existing financial pressures General Practice is already facing.

You can read the accompanying online article featuring Wessex LMCs Joint CEO Dr Andy Purbrick 'Surgeries on 'precipice' ahead of tax hike, says GP' here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cdrdem1mr16o

(Recorded 20th November 2024)

A Huge Potential Threat to General Practice

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:14:48 +0000

Wessex LMCs Joint CEO Dr Andy Purbrick talks to BBC Radio Solent (Dorset) about the huge potential threat the increase in National Insurance contributions will have to General Practice.

Andy also highlights the other pressures facing General Practice including the workload crisis.

You can read the accompanying online article 'Surgeries on 'precipice' ahead of tax hike, says GP' here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cdrdem1mr16o

(Recorded 20th November 2024)

Non-Specific Symptom Pathways Explained

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 11:48:48 +0000

In this podcast, Dr Andy Purbrick, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs talks with:

Dr Richard Hiskins, GP working in SWAG Cancer Alliance
Dr Richard Roope, Wessex Rapid Investigation Service GP
Kelly Spiller, head of faster diagnostics and Wessex Cancer Alliance

They discuss:

What is a Cancer Alliance?
The evolution of NSS pathways
The referral process: who can refer, how, and what pre-investigations are carried out?
The patient journey and how this differs between Wessex and SWAG.
The benefits of the NSS Pathways
The outcomes from the service so far (Cancer detection rates, incidental findings, and onward referrals)

NHS Continuing Healthcare Explained

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 09:17:20 +0000

Dr Andy Purbrick, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs talks with the all age continuing care team at NHS Dorset to dispel some of the myths behind continuing health care, how the referrals process works and why it’s so important for patients.

A Patient’s Point of View - What is happening to General Practice?

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 12:06:23 +0000

Christopher Saunders (Patient) & Sarah Peters (Healthwatch) ask Dr Andy Purbrick (GP & Joint CEO, Wessex LMCs) the crucial questions that are at the front of so many people’s minds. Why can’t I ever see my own doctor? Why do I have to tell the receptionist what is wrong? Why are the surgery waiting rooms so empty? Listen in to a fascinating, honest and illuminating discussion.

The Benefits of Time Spent with Like-Minded Managers

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 11:39:26 +0100

Louise Greenwood (Director of Education and Training, Wessex LMCs) talks to Matt Perkins and Jayne Tabor, two of Wessex LMCs’ Practice Manager Supporters about the benefits of spending time with like-minded managers. It can be a huge benefit to sit down and share the challenges of the job, share some wisdom and ask for advice from peers, whether this is at a formal Practice Manage meeting or an informal Space to Thrive group. This time can be the most valuable of your week – and it can be fun and inspiring too! What have you got to lose?

Women’s Health - challenges and practical solutions to delivering menopause care in general practice

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 10:27:21 +0100

In this podcast, Zoe Tobin (previous Nurse Advisor at Wessex LMCs) is kindly joined by Dr Camilla Janssen (Hampshire GP and Vice Chair & representative for the HIOW LMC), who has an interest in women’s health and has explored innovative ways of delivery in General Practice.

Topics covered include:

What are the current challenges in the delivery of women’s health in general practice for both the patient and the clinician?
What practical solutions are there to overcome these challenges?
Camilla shares examples of initiatives implemented at practice / PCN level, including:
Patient group education - examples of initiatives implemented, such as a PCN mass education session & 6wk menopause support group
Access to trusted resources - development of a PCN website, where link can be sent via AccuRx to patients, contains educational resources and access to a patient questionnaire that can be completed prior to a menopause consultation, providing key background information in advance.
Consultation delivery models - 1:1 consultations & shared medical consultations, possible considerations required in the setting up and running of these clinics.

Menopause | New Forest PCN

Menopause 6 week support course | New Forest PCN

Osteoporosis for GPs

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:46:04 +0100

Listen to Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Andy Purbrick talking to Dr Jonathan Marks, Consultant Rheumatologist at UHD Hospital, as they discuss the latest guidelines around osteoporosis management and how GPs can put them into practice.

Please find links mentioned in the podcast:

Summary of main recommendations | NOGG
Fracture Risk Assessment Tool

Royal Osteoporosis Society - Better Bone Health for Everybody (theros.org.uk)

Death Certification Reforms and Statutory Medical Examiner System

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 13:03:15 +0100

Our Joint CEOs Dr Andy Purbrick and Dr Laura Edwards together discuss the impending reforms to Death Regulations that come into place next week. They will run through the need to knows and our website guidance and decision-making flowchart to help you navigate the process and the changes. See all the guidance and the flow chart here: Death Certification - Wessex LMCs

Visa Sponsorship in General Practice

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 10:34:16 +0100

Does your practice have a visa sponsorship licence already?

Do you know what it is or why you might want one?

This podcast will persuade you to push this up your practice list of priorities as something to have in place! Listen now to find out why. Our Joint CEO and GP Dr Laura Edwards talks with a panel around visa sponsorship and how it impacts international graduates particularly around the time of qualification and what actions practices may want to take to help with their recruitment.

Helpful Resources:

UK Visa Sponsorship Licences (formerly known as Tier 2) - Wessex LMCs

Skilled Workers/Visa Sponsorship Licences - bswtraininghub.nhs.uk

Different ways of working – a General Practice example

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 15:20:37 +0100

In this episode Dr Edd Rendell speaks with Business Manager Jo Farnworth and GP Partner Dr John Robertson from Prince of Wales Surgery, Dorchester. They have found a new way of working which includes creating additional administration time and offering more prebookable appointments. This has led to a happier practice for staff and patients and them no longer requiring a duty doctor. We talk through how this happened and what changes they have seen over the past 11 months. They share tips for practices who wish to explore a similar model.

An insight into GPDF

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 11:44:10 +0100

This Wessex LMCs podcast is about an organisation called the GPDF – or General Practitioners Defence Fund. In this podcast Dr Will Howard (Medical Director of Wessex LMCs) is joined by Dr Chris Castle, a GP Partner in Southeast Hants, Chair of Wessex LMCs Board and a Board member of GPDF. Chris and Will discuss what GPDF is, what it does and how it is funded, as well as how you might be able to access it if you need it. GPDF also fund the national conferences which is critical in giving LMCs a voice in directing GPC action and negotiation. For more information take a look at the GPDF website: https://www.gpdf.org.uk/

Our Values

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 16:53:06 +0100

Edd Rendell, talks to Dr Simon Wright, GP and Chair of the Dorset LMC, and Lisa Harding, about ‘Our Values’. They discuss what the Values mean, why they are so important and how they apply to the work of the LMC. See more on our website here.

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) in Primary Care

Tue, 21 May 2024 15:40:43 +0100

Pertussis – the latest infectious disease to make the headlines, but also to cause real risk to the most vulnerable patients in our population. Listen to Dr Sanjay Patel, Consultant in Infections disease at Southampton Hospital talk Dr Will Howard, a Wessex LMCs Medical Director, about pertussis, what’s going on, how to recognise and treat it, and how we might minimise its future impact through prevention by immunisation.

The General Practice Nurse Role

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:33:44 +0100

In this podcast Zoe Tobin (previous Nurse Advisor) is joined by Angie Hack, Assistant Director of Nursing Programmes at the Queen's Nursing Institute, and Chair of the Association of Academic General Practice Nurse Educators. They discuss the ever-developing role of the General Practice Nurse in primary care. This podcast is aimed at GPNs, anyone interested in becoming a GPN and other members of the practice team who would like a better understanding of the role, such as Practice Managers,

This podcast covers:

The skills and qualifications required to undertake the role
The different roles in general practice nursing
Education pathways for nurses seeking a career in General practice nursing
Sources of support for trainee GPNs
Resources and contacts to aid practice nurse training and development

Resources-

General Practice Nursing Induction Template

Standards of Education and Practice for Nurses New to General Practice Nursing

https://qni.org.uk/

https://qni.org.uk/resources/?aow=general-practice

https://gpnen.org.uk/

https://www.hee.nhs.uk/our-work/training-hubs - find your local training hub.

Respiratory Care & Paediatric Asthma

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 09:35:15 +0100

In this podcast our Nurse Advisor Zoe Tobin is joined by Emma Ray (Respiratory Nurse Specialist in General Practice & Clinical Practice Educator: Children and young people with Asthma HIOW) to discuss all things respiratory. They talk through effective paediatric asthma care in primary care, staff training and development, and resources and support for the practice team in the delivery of respiratory services.

Useful links-

Primary Care Respiratory Society

Association of Respiratory Nurses

National Paediatric Respiratory and Allergy Nurses Group- NPRANG

Find a local peer support network | Primary Care Respiratory Society (pcrs-uk.org)- Please note- you will be able to find local groups and forums but in order to contact them membership is required.

Contact for Emma Ray- Emma.ray@uhs.nhs.uk

Health Inequalities - The Surprising Factor

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 10:16:30 +0100

In this podcast Dr Laura Edwards discusses with Dr Katie Warburton and Dr Jo Hunter their work around health inequalities, and the surprising factor and difference that we can make with our approach as professionals in our daily work. Sometimes solving health inequalities can feel totally out of our reach, but Katie and Jo explain that by the way we approach our consultations, we can make a difference.

Taking Late Retirement from the NHS 1995 Pension Section

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 15:32:03 +0000

In this podcast, Jan Harley-Doyle from Lifestyle Options explains the importance of practices being aware of the ramifications of staff taking late retirement from the 1995 section of the NHS pension scheme.

Please read the handout and share it with your colleagues to ensure that moving forward, all staff take their 1995 pension at a time that is most financially beneficial to them, taking into account their personal circumstances all the factors mentioned in the podcast.

Please note, this handout only applies to any membership accrued in the 1995 Section. It DOES NOT apply to any membership accrued in the 2008 or 2015 Schemes.

The role of the HCA in General Practice

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 09:42:09 +0000

In this podcast, Zoe Tobin (previous nurse advisor) is joined by Julia O Mara and Julia Judd, trainers from J2S training, who provide valuable comprehensive training for HCAs in general practice for Wessex LMCs, to discuss the role of the HCA in general practice and will cover-

Overview of the HCA role and role development
Clinical supervision / Accountability and Delegation
Extended roles, such as Long-term conditions management
Tips for CPD and what to look for when employing a HCA
Key resources and support for HCAs.

This podcast would be beneficial for any current HCAs, or anyone interested in the role, it is also beneficial for employers / managers who would like to find out more about the role in practice.

Useful links-

The Nursing Team - Wessex LMCs

Wessex LMCs: Education, Training & Development– we offer a range of training courses for HCAs

First Steps | Professional services | Royal College of Nursing (rcn.org.uk)

https://www.e-lfh.org.uk/programmes/care-certificate/

Primary Care and General Practice Nursing Careers and Core Capabilities Framework

Contact for Julia and Julia- info@j2s.co.uk

Pharmacy First Service

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 13:36:00 +0000

Laura Edwards and Sarah Cotton discuss Pharmacy First a new initiative that has been rolled out across the country. They discuss how the new service is going including what conditions are covered, the funding and some of the myths surrounding it. There are also some top tips of how to get the most from this service for your patients and what future developments there might be.

Find out more here: https://cpe.org.uk/national-pharmacy-services/advanced-services/pharmacy-first-service/

Shared Care - A guide from Wessex LMCs

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:53:08 +0000

Shared care is a term used within the NHS to describe the situation where a specialist doctor wishes to pass some of the patient’s care, such as prescription of medication, over to their general practitioner (GP). This is something that can be requested but the guidance for all medications is that this may only be done if the GP agrees. The GP will need to consider a number of factors to decide if this is safe.

Shared care is an important aspect of care that we are hearing from practices is causing increased tension and pressure at present.

Dr Laura Edwards, CEO, and Dr Will Howard, Medical Director, bring us up to speed on Wessex LMCs guidance which you can find here: https://www.wessexlmcs.com/understanding-shared-care-nhs-right-to-choose-and-private-providers/

General Practice Improvement Programme

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 09:40:53 +0000

Michelle Lombardi, Director of Primary Care, talks with Amelia Davis, Operational Service Lead at Malmesbury Primary Care Centre.

They discuss how the General Practice Improvement Programme can help practices in development of the modern General Practice concept. Amelia explains what it has been like to undertake the programme in her practice and shares her learning with us.

For more information see: https://www.england.nhs.uk/gp/national-general-practice-improvement-programme/

GP Contract Hand Back - The Implications, Liabilities & Practical Considerations

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:04:43 +0000

Dr Andy Purbrick (Joint CEO, Wessex LMCs) discusses the thorny issue of why a GP Partnership may consider handing back its contract and closing the practice, the implications, liabilities and practical considerations involved, and the potential alternatives to this Armageddon situation. Andy is joined by solicitors Robert McCartney (Hempsons) & Rachel Crean (VWV), Sally Sidaway ( Morris Crocker Accountants) and Adam Thompson (surveyor, Primary Care Surveyors).

A Personal Experience of Unique End of Life Wishes

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 14:57:46 +0100

This podcast is exceptional in many ways. It is a deeply personal story of a family carrying out their mothers rather unique end of life wishes. We hear from Dr Julia Hempenstall about her professional and personal experience.

Call to GP Practices to get Onboard Wessex Healthier Together

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 10:36:50 +0100

The Wessex Healthier Together website provides advice for parents, young people and pregnant women, and clinical resources to support healthcare professionals – which means that children are likely to receive consistently high-quality care, irrespective of which healthcare professional they see.

Sanjay Patel, Paediatrics Infectious Diseases Consultant at Southampton Children's hospital who leads the Healthier Together programme, joins us to discuss the resources available in further detail to help change parental help seeking behaviour.

The Healthier Together app aims to change the health-seeking behaviour of parents by providing them with the tools to evaluate the severity of their child’s illness when they are poorly.

Only by your practice formally onboarding will your patients have full access to the functionality of the app. We encourage practices to get onboard before the rise in winter respiratory viruses.

If you have any queries or require further support to onboard, please contact ahmadc@cenigma.net

https://www.healthiertogether.nhs.uk/

Safe Working in General Practice - Inspiration for Change

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 15:33:17 +0100

Dr Steph Carter and Dr Claire Hodgekiss, both GP Partners in Hampshire discuss the projects they have been involved in to improve their practice service for both patients and staff.

Steph’s practice worked on improved access for patients. By creating a better workplace culture, the team worked together to achieve improved capacity and safe general practice care.

Claire describes how her practice took back control of the number of daily contacts to improve patient care, with a focus on same day access.

We encourage anyone listening to this podcast to think about these safe working projects and hope this inspires your practice to go through a process of change.

Autism Awareness in Primary Care

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 16:19:29 +0100

Dr Laura Edwards talks with Dr Gemma Langman, Clinical Champion for Learning Disability and Autism for the Hampshire and IOW ICB.

Gemma has a passion for neurodiversity and explains more about the modalities of autism. She also provides tips for clinicians to improve consultations and best support patients with autism.

The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism

Learning Disabilities Awareness in Primary Care

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 10:17:23 +0100

----more----Dr Laura Edwards talks with Dr Gemma Langman, Clinical Champion for Learning Disability and Autism for the Hampshire & IOW ICB.

This discussion aims to bring awareness and increase understanding and confidence in dealing with patients with learning disabilities.

Wessex LMCs: Learning Disabilities: The Annual Health Check

Paediatric Egg Allergy in Primary Care

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 11:26:56 +0100

Wessex LMCs Medical Director Dr Edd Rendell, and previous Nurse Advisor Zoe Tobin, talk to Cherry Alvian, Paediatric Allergy GRID registrar at University Hospital Southampton about Egg allergy in children, including –

New guidance around the management of mild cases of paediatric egg allergy in primary care
Guidance and considerations around vaccinating children with a confirmed egg allergy
Signposting to relevant sources of support and guidance for both health care professionals and parents of Egg allergic children.

Further resources mentioned in the podcast can be located here https://www.healthiertogether.nhs.uk/new-parent-and-baby/allergic-reaction

Patient behaviour is evolving fast – where do you turn for help?

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 11:21:10 +0100

Figures from consumer research group 2San show that 1 in 3 people in Southampton initially look for medical advice on socials instead of from a GP.

In this radio interview, Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Laura Edwards, talks to Global News about how this affects the NHS.

Being an International Medical Graduate (IMG)

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 09:40:17 +0100

Alex Morgan continues the discussion with Sharjeel Qureshi and they dig a little deeper into how it feels to be training as a GP in a different place and culture. Sharjeel shares experiences about racism, religion and culture and offers some techniques for IMGs to help them overcome challenges.

"Spend a Penny" booklet to share with International Graduate GP trainees.

Hosting an International Medical Graduate (IMG) in your Surgery

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 09:26:48 +0100

Dr Will Howard talks to Dr Sharjeel Qureshi & Dr Alex Morgan about hosting an International Medical Graduate (IMG) in your surgery as a training GP. Dr Alex Morgan (Team Communication Specialist, International Coach and Coach Supervisor) elaborates on why and how teams & individuals behave as they do, Dr Sharjeel Qureshi (GP Partner, Near to Peer Support Fellow NHSE, Dorset LMCs’ Committee Member) brings real & personal examples, and Dr Will Howard summarises with a list of hints and tips for practices.

"Spend a Penny" booklet to share with International Graduate GP trainees.

FIT Testing demystified, Overview of the 2WW ”Rapid Investigation Service” & ”Cancer of Unknown Primary” Pathways

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 12:27:55 +0100

GP Dr Camilla Janssen talks to Richard Roope about FIT tests, their use in screening as well as for the symptomatic population. Also covered are the new colorectal referral pathways including recent changes, such as the FIT -ive referral route. Discussions include appropriateness of requesting and interpreting FIT tests in different clinical situations, i.e. with rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, acute infection and when taking iron supplementation and the importance of safety netting.

Here is the link to the information on the Wessex Cancer Alliance website, including useful links that can be sent to patients regarding the FIT tests and result interpretation, as well as Wessex lower GI pathways and flowcharts.

Symptomatic FIT - Welcome to Wessex Cancer Alliance

The final part of the discussion covers the "Rapid Investigation Service" as well as the "Cancer of Unknown Primary" 2WW pathways. Awareness is raised regarding the high incidence of false -ive results with different tests and the importance of remembering this, when interpreting results in the clinical context.

Coping with Imposter Syndrome

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 14:32:15 +0100

Imposter Syndrome is the experience that many high-achieving people have of feeling a fraud, of not deserving their success, a fear of being ‘found out’, of not being as competent as other people think they are. It is characterised by chronic self-doubt, feeling phoney, attributing success to luck or other external factors, feeling unable to live up to expectations, etc.

The best evidence is that it effects women more often than men and people from humble origins more than those from more privileged backgrounds.

In this podcast, Dr Edd Rendell, Medical Director at Wessex LMCs, speaks with John Perry, a counsellor and coach, about tips for coping with Imposter Syndrome.

Cannabis and Young People

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 13:28:57 +0100

Wessex LMCs previous Nurse Advisor Zoe Tobin talks to Karen Perryman, Regional Manager of the Talk About Trust (formally the Alcohol Education Trust) about cannabis and young people, included in this discussion-

Cannabis, what is out there?, what are the social norms around cannabis use, are there many young people using cannabis these days?
What are the effects of cannabis and how can you approach this with a young person?
What support is out there for a young person who is affect by cannabis use and where can we signpost?

Useful links mentioned in this podcast-

https://alcoholeducationtrust.org/

https://life-stuff.org/

https://www.themix.org.uk/

https://www.wearewithyou.org.uk/

Alcohol and Young people with Special Educational Needs

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 10:00:37 +0100

Wessex LMCs previous Nurse Advisor Zoe Tobin talks to Karen Perryman, Regional Manager of the Talk About Trust (formally Alcohol Education Trust) for the South West/Midlands about alcohol and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN), included in this discussion -

How do you talk about alcohol the ‘drug’ to young people with SEN, including explaining Government guidance and the concept of ‘units’, and the effects of alcohol on their social. Physical and emotional wellbeing?
How do you ensure that a young person knows where to go for help if they have been affected by alcohol?

Useful links mentioned in the podcast:

https://alcoholeducationtrust.org/

https://www.talkaboutalcohol.com/

https://www.al-anonuk.org.uk/alateen/

https://www.wearewithyou.org.uk/

Giving a bit back to veterans…and increasing staff morale and patient care at the same time

Tue, 16 May 2023 12:09:15 +0100

Louise Greenwood (Director of Education & Training at Wessex LMCs) talks to Andrew Pearce, Quality and Compliance Manager for Portsdown Group Practice. Andrew is a veteran himself and describes caring for veterans and their families whether they are staff or patients at the practice. Information about the Veteran Friendly Practice is here. If you would l like to find out more about anything in this podcast, please contact Andrew on Andrew.pearce11@nhs.net.

https://elearning.rcgp.org.uk/mod/book/view.php?id=12533&chapterid=285

Lyme Disease Awareness

Thu, 04 May 2023 15:06:31 +0100

In this podcast we explore Lyme disease, its prevalence and presentations. Lyme disease symptoms may be non-specific and difficult to recognise. Raising awareness amongst primary care clinicians will increase the likelihood of patients receiving early and effective treatment.

Dr Camilla Janssen talks to infectious disease and microbiology consultant, Matthew Dryden, from the Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory (RIPL), Porton Down.

Matthew explains:

Lyme presentation and manifestation - thinking about the three stages of Lyme disease

early localized phase
early disseminated phase (Neuro dissemination / radiculopathy)
late stage Lyme disease.

what tests and treatment may be appropriate including asymptomatic prophylaxis following a tick bite.

A look at serology and interpretation in the context of the clinical setting.

Chronic fatigue triggered by Lyme disease

The RCGP have produced this user friendly Lyme Disease Toolkit for medical professionals and patients.

Feeling Overwhelmed & Under Pressure from Patient Demand?

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 09:36:00 +0100

Do you feel overwhelmed with patient demand and are you constantly feeling the pressure? Do listen to Dr Rebecca Lye (GP) and Mrs Alex Kimber (Managing Partner) from The Grove Medical Centre who have changed the way they work in a manageable way – and feel much more in control and feel less pressure as a result. They discuss what they did and why with Louise Greenwood, Wessex LMC’s Director of Education, Training & Development.

2.6 Million Patients vs 1400 GPs

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 13:31:34 +0000

Dr Laura Edwards, Joint CEO of Wessex LMCs was recently interviewed by Global News to highlight the pressures in general practice. Take a listen to the interview which was featured on Heart Hampshire Radio on 10th March 23.

Wessex LMCs Key Patient & Media Messages

Anxiety and depression: why doctors are prescribing gardening rather than drugs

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 15:06:38 +0000

Many GPs are now prescribing growing and other green activities, and evidence suggests that this can be as effective at treating anxiety and depression as medication, and sometimes more so. https://theconversation.com/anxiety-and-depression-why-doctors-are-prescribing-gardening-rather-than-drugs-121841

Dr Anne Hayden founder of the Grown your own Rainbow Gardens initiative explains how the project helps address physical and mental wellbeing and food insecurity.

The initiative is about empowering people to take control of their lives by coming together as a supportive community, better able to cope with life’s challenges.

Lawrence Camilleri, founder of Forever More Food works in partnership with the project which has been steadily gowning in popularity.

To find out more and get involved, email yourplanetdoctors@gmail.com or take a look at: https://sustainabilitypractitioners.org/grow-your-own-rainbow-gardens-your-planet-doctors/

The pressure never stops, BBC Radio Solent Interview with Dr Andy Purbrick

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 15:57:52 +0000

On Tuesday 7th March, Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Andy Purbrick, spoke on BBC Radio Solent’s breakfast show (broadcast to Dorset). Following a segment on the day in the life of a GP, featuring Dr Lisa Nayler from the Parkstone Tower Practice in Poole, Andy explains why the workload crisis is not just a result of the pandemic.

The pressure never stops, BBC Radio Solent Interview with Dr Laura Edwards

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 15:56:58 +0000

On Tuesday 7th March, Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Laura Edwards, spoke on BBC Radio Solent’s breakfast show (broadcast to Hampshire & IOW). Following a segment on the day in the life of a GP, featuring Dr Lisa Nayler from the Parkstone Tower Practice in Poole, Laura discusses why there aren’t enough GPs to meet an increasing medically complex population.

Talking Transgender

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 14:22:20 +0000

Dr Cora Sargent, Educational Psychologist and a Senior Training Fellow at the University of Southampton, joins us to discuss the work she carries out as part of the gender research group.

Cora draws on her own experiences of being transgender to explain her journey with trans services and her GP. She also highlights the societal barriers that non-binary and transgender people face.

Transgender guidance is available on the LMC website here: Care of Transgender and Non-Binary Patients in Primary Care

Have you heard of the Cameron Fund?

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 13:35:29 +0000

Dr Will Howard, Medical Director at Wessex LMCS, talks with Vernon Needham, trustee of the Cameron Fund.

Vernon explains everything you need to know about the Cameron Fund including:

Who the charity can benefit and examples of how
How the charity is funded
The application process
Timescales for the application process
The Cameron Funds Top 10 tips

Find out more at:

https://www.cameronfund.org.uk/

https://www.wessexlmcs.com/thecameronfund

Supply vs Demand in General Practice

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 09:16:50 +0000

Following Dr Laura Edwards Meridian interview, she talks with Dr Edd Rendell about the huge mismatch in patient demand vs staffing levels in General Practice.

Safe Working in General Practice

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 10:16:02 +0000

Dr Richard Van Mellaerts, London based GP and British Medical Association Deputy Chair of the GP Committee (England) speaks to Dr Edd Rendell, Medical Director of Wessex LMCs about the BMA guidance on Safe Working in General Practice.

They discuss why a practice might implement some of the suggestions within this document and practical advice on how this could be achieved.

Safe working in general practice (bma.org.uk)

Patient Safety - A Focus on Children & Teenagers

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 09:38:12 +0000

Dr Chrissy Boardman, CAMHS Doctor, talks to Dr Sarah Kay- GP Clinical Lead for Patient Safety at NHS Dorset about prevention of child and teenager suicides. They discuss how to risk stratify presentations of self-harm, including the importance of establishing history of autism, eating disorder, or gender dysphoria or recent bereavement that may increase your index of concern. They discuss resources to signpost patients and parents to as a practical way of supporting families.

If the health sector were a country, it would be the fifth-largest emitter on the planet...

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 11:47:46 +0100

Angela Hayes, Clinical Nurse Specialist at The Christie Foundation Trust in Manchester, talks to Dr Laura Edwards about the sustainability projects she is involved in, and how we can think about our carbon footprint more in healthcare.

Green Team Competition

‘The gloves are off’ campaign

National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 10:07:17 +0100

Recorded during our PM update on 31st August, Connie Timmins, Lead Nurse for Infection Prevention and Control at NHS BSW ICB talks to us about the National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness 2021.

National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness Presentation Slides

The Importance of Patient Safety

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 11:30:05 +0100

Louise Greenwood is joined by:

Sarah Kay, GP Clinical Lead for Patient Safety at NHS Dorset
Jaydee Swarbrick, Patient Safety Specialist at NHS Dorset

to discuss the importance of patient safety at this time of significant pressure across the NHS. Patient safety is about maximising the things that go right and minimising the things that go wrong. It is integral to the NHS’ definition of quality in healthcare, alongside effectiveness and patient experience.

Useful Reading:

NHS England » The NHS Patient Safety Strategy

Wessex LMCs: Significant Event Analysis (SEA) - Significant Events, Serious Incidents and GP Learning Events - What are the differences?

Wessex LMCs: Medical Examiner & Death Certificates - Audio & Video Podcasts and Recorded Webinars

Wessex LMCs: Support for the Practice Team

Even sceptical GPs can benefit from coaching!

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 09:35:16 +0100

Louise Greenwood (Director of Education) talks to Dr Andy Purbrick (CEO and GP) and David Birch. Andy was coached by David and they discuss how and why Andy decided that coaching was a good idea for him and how he benefitted from it.

David Birch is an independent executive coach and supervisor accredited by Ashridge business school.

The Green Agenda and Estates in Primary Care

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 09:09:26 +0100

Dr Laura Edwards speaks with Adam Thompson, Director of Primary Care Surveyors and Mark Robinson, architect, and Director at Simpson Hilder Associates. They discuss:

The role buildings play in the green agenda
What is bream and why is it so important
What you can do to improve your premises
How to start the process of a new premises and timescales

Two Practice Managers share their Experiences of Practice Mergers

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 10:26:39 +0000

Wessex LMCs PM Supporter, Matt Perkins and Sue Scott (previous PM Supporter) discuss their experiences of practice mergers. From initial considerations to the merger process itself, Matt and Sue share their advice and top tips.

The LMC is often asked to facilitate merger meetings and explain the process involved and has, as a consequence, produced a merger pack which is full of information and advice around this subject. Download a copy here

Reducing your practice’s carbon footprint: managing clinical waste

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 10:41:43 +0000

The management of clinical waste is an essential part of ensuring that healthcare activities do not pose a risk of infection, as well as reducing your practice's carbon footprint. Dr Katharine Edmonds joins us with some tips and advice to help reinforce waste management behaviour in practice. Have you considered getting your PPG involved? Katharine explains all...

Find out more on the Greener Practice website: https://www.greenerpractice.co.uk/gifh-audit-1

Wessex LMCs - Our Roles and Responsibilities

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 11:56:26 +0000

Are you familiar with the roles and responsibilities of Wessex LMCs? Dr Gareth Bryant, Acting Chief Executive, gives us an overview including:

What is a LMC
What is Wessex LMCs
LMC structure
What is our Constitution and what is included
Who attends LMC meetings
What role do the Committees play
Who are PM members
What role do individual members play and what is expected on them

To watch the webinar version and access the accompanying slides please click here

Community Pharmacist Consultation Service (CPCS) - Everything you need to know

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 14:35:03 +0000

The NHS Community Pharmacist Consultation Service launched in October 2019 as an advanced service. Since 1st November 2020, general practices have been able to refer patients for a minor illness consultation via CPCS, once a local referral pathway has been agreed.

Carolyn Beale, Support & Implementation Manager from Community Pharmacy Swindon and Wiltshire joins Dr Laura Edwards, Medical Director at Wessex LMCs. Carolyn explains more about how the service works and the benefits for GPs.

For further info see https://cpe.org.uk/national-pharmacy-services/advanced-services/community-pharmacist-consultation-service/cpcs-resources-for-pharmacy-teams/

Nacoa - Info, advice & support for those affected by a parent’s drinking.

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 12:25:04 +0000

Dr Gareth Bryant, talks with Euan Graham, a volunteer for the charity Nacoa (National Association for Children of Alcoholics). Euan talks to us about the work Nacoa does and resources available to help clinicians.

The 13th - 19th February 2022 marks #COAWeek2022. The campaign aims to raise awareness for the millions of children in the UK affected by their parent’s drinking. You can download the poster images for sharing here.

Find out more at https://nacoa.org.uk/

Information for parents

To obtain display posters or referral cards from Nacoa, please email admin@nacoa.org.uk

Have you heard of the IGPM?

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 17:42:42 +0000

The Institute of General Practice Management (IGPM) was formed in December 2020 with the aim of being recognised as the professional body that represents all managers working within general practice in the United Kingdom.

Louise Greenwood chats to the 3 IGPM reps for Wessex about what the IGPM is and how it can help Practice Managers

Find out more information here

Over Diagnosis - A focus on green clinical care

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 15:07:58 +0000

Dr Katharine Edmonds joins us for the next in a series of green podcasts. Tackling over diagnosis is taking on a new urgency in the context of a climate emergency. Katharine shares some thought provoking information on how reducing over diagnosis and over-treatment has the potential to cut healthcare’s carbon emissions, while at the same time safeguarding the quality of care and ensuring that patient outcomes aren’t adversely affected.

A Case Finding Hypertension Service

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 08:52:03 +0000

Early detection of hypertension is vital and there is evidence that community pharmacy has a key role in detection and subsequent treatment of hypertension and CVD, improving outcomes and reducing the burden on GPs.

Debby Crockford, Chief Officer at Community Pharmacy South Central, introduces us to ‘A Case Finding Hypertension Service’ which is an interplay between Primary Care and pharmacies. Debby explains how the service works and addresses potential concerns GPs may have.

Find out more here: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/advanced-service-specification-nhs-community-pharmacy-hypertension-case-finding-advanced-service/

Pharmaceuticals in the environment - a growing problem

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 14:59:27 +0000

Following our podcast ' Do you want to be a Green GP? ' Dr Katharine Edmonds joins us for the next in a series of green podcasts. The NHS makes up 5% of the UK's carbon emissions, with the biggest contributing factor being pharmaceuticals. Katharine shares some thought provoking information and tips to help you and your patients with deprescribing.

Do you want to be a Green GP?

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 14:36:14 +0000

A 2022 survey of Wessex GPs, revealed that 96% feel that Primary Care should be taking action to combat climate change.

Dr Katharine Edmonds, GP & Co chair of the Green GP Network in Wessex talks with Laura Edwards about green issues and how we can make it easy to be green (& save money in the process).

Find out more at: https://www.wessexlmcs.com/greengpwessex

How we can cope with ongoing stress

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 12:55:14 +0000

Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Laura Edwards talk with John Perry on how we can cope with ongoing stress. John has particular expertise in the areas of psychological wellbeing, stress management & resilience and values exploration.

What are 'awe walks'?

Very Brief Advice (VBA) for Smoking Cessation

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 16:05:07 +0100

This conversation between Dr Richard Roope and Cancer Research UK facilitators Victoria Wright & Lucy Pickup discusses the importance of smoking cessation for patients, highlighting the inequality gap and the simple 30-second technique to effectively deliver ‘Very Brief Advice’ in a consultation.

Cancer Research UK facilitators can provide a short training session for PCNs on delivering VBA. If you would like more information or to arrange this then contact england.wessexcanceralliance@nhs.net.

Becoming a Practice Manager Partner

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 16:42:21 +0100

Recorded during our 2021 PM Conference, PM Supporters Nicky Wornell and Alex Kimber discuss the pros and cons of becoming a PM Partner.

The Job's Too Big (for PMs)

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 14:10:15 +0100

Louise Greenwood talks to Jenny Partridge, one of our PM Supporters to tackle the problem of the current PM role – ‘The Job’s Too Big’. Some practical solutions are offered including our new initiative for PMs to find a ‘Space to Thrive’.

Thinking again about the Administrators and Managers

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 11:29:36 +0100

Jayne Tabor, PM Supporter, chats with Louise Greenwood, Director of Education & Training, and shares different ways of structuring the admin and reception teams. Jayne illustrates a way of introducing new managers to share the responsibilities of running the practice and suggests how you can agree pay scales.

Prevention & Screening in Cancer what is Primary Care's role?

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 16:50:19 +0100

This conversation between Dr Julia Hempenstall and Dr Richard Roope summarises what we can do to prevent cancers and how we can help with screening uptake.

Dr Roope is a portfolio GP with a special interest in Cancer. He has held national and local leadership roles in the field and works in the Wessex Rapid Investigation Service.

Please see https://www.wessexlmcs.com/canceraudiovideopodcastsandrecordedwebinars for a copy of the presentation slides

Staring down a speculum into the world of colposcopy

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 10:09:40 +0100

Local GP Camilla Janssen talks to Ian Simpson, a consultant Gynaecologist in Basingstoke, who runs the colposcopy service. They explore the recent changes to the cervical screening programme and the impact that these changes have on secondary and primary care. They also discuss the appropriate referral criteria for colposcopy and highlight conditions that would be better served by a referral to general gynaecology instead. They discuss HPV and how to explain this to patients.

Patients with Learning Disabilities and the Flu Jab

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 16:16:47 +0100

In this Podcast Michelle Lombardi, Director of Primary Care, talks with Becky Sparks, Registered Learning Disability Nurse, about how practices can make changes to encourage those with learning disabilities to receive the flu jab.

Social Prescribing

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 11:00:46 +0100

Louise Greenwood talks to Sara Stringer from the Blandford Group Practice about the positive effect that Social Prescribing has had on patients and staff.

Safeguarding - Focus on the isolation of the elderly

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 15:32:10 +0000

A discussion between Wendy Thorogood (Nurse Consultant for Safeguarding) and Sarah Kay, GP Clinical Fellow at Wessex LMCs