Practices sign up for pioneering scheme (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Practices sign up for pioneering scheme

6:40am Saturday 17th October 2009 in

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GP practices in Bradford have joined forces to boost nursing skills.

Seven GP practices in the district have signed up to a pioneering new practice nurse training programme which aims to combat a shortage of experienced, qualified practice nurses. It gives newly-qualified nurses the practical skills and knowledge needed to work in GP surgeries.

Anne Lowe, business manager at Mayfield Medical Centre, said: “We knew there was a shortage of skilled nurses with General Practice experience in the area, and a significant number of existing practice nurses were due to retire in the next five years.

“The GP practices in this area recognised the need for urgent action to fill the skills gap, and worked together to develop this ground-breaking new course.”

The training course is endorsed by the Academic Unit of Primary Care at the University of Leeds and was funded by NHS Bradford and Airedale.

The first group of seven trainees have been successfully appointed as practice nurses in the local area.

Newly-qualified practice nurse Hayley Andrew, said: “I have developed my skills and knowledge enormously during the past year and the support I have received has enabled me to reach my goals.

“I have recommended this course to others, so they too can have all the opportunities that I had.”

Previously, practices employing newly-qualified or hospital nurses needed to invest time and money in training to develop the specific skills required for General Practice.

Jo Coombs, director of nursing at NHS Bradford and Airedale, said: “I’m delighted with the success of this programme and pleased that we’ve been able to support such a dynamic and innovative project which opens up a new career path into practice nursing.”

The seven GP practices involved in the scheme are: Bowling Hall Medical Practice, Mayfield Medical Centre, Parklands Medical Practice, The Ridge Medical Practice, Sunnybank Medical Centre, Wilsden Medical Practice and Highfield Medical Practice.