Abstract
A GP with an extended role
A GP with an extended role (GPwER) is a GP who, in addition to their core general practice, carries out a role that is beyond the scope of GP training and Membership of the RCGP (MRCGP) and therefore requires further training.
Different areas of the country have different health care requirements and offer some different services. Taking this into account, the RCGP has developed information and guidance to help GPs demonstrate competence in extended scopes of clinical practice. This includes guidance for GPs on competency in dermatology, gambling addiction, musculoskeletal medicine, sports and exercise medicine, rheumatology and allergy medicine.
There is guidance being considered and in development for population health, health inequalities, sustainable health, child and young persons’ mental health, diabetes, metabolic medicine and prevention of diabetes, palliative care, emergency medicine, lifestyle medicine and research in primary care. As expected, the list is not exhaustive, and GPs may consider studying for diplomas in specific areas, such as respiratory medicine for work in community respiratory clinics, for example. Employers and service commissioners are encouraged to refer to the RCGP guidance for GPs with extended roles.
There will always be local service variation, and for this reason, GPs planning to deliver a service as a GPwER are advised to establish requirements with the relevant employer and service commissioner to ensure they have the required competencies to deliver the service. For anyone considering a role in a specialist area after qualification, speak to local commissioners of services, to find out what the local population needs are. Currently the RCGP supports the British Association of Dermatologists to provide an accreditation programme for dermatology GPwERs. This is the only national accreditation scheme available at present.
Final thoughts
Sadly, an RCGP survey last year, found that 39% of the GP workforce across the UK are seriously considering leaving the profession within the next 5 years. A portfolio career can help improve morale, work performance and resilience. It may help retain colleagues working in an increasingly demoralised primary care workforce, but risks further depleting the same workforce and diminishing continuity of care for patients.
