Did you know there are now a dozen different expert roles supporting patients across Cornwall’s GP surgeries? Each of these experts gives tailored help that matches a person’s needs. So, it’s not always the doctor you need to see. It’s time to think ‘#TeamGP’.
GP practices in Cornwall have never been so busy, with more than 358,000 appointments happening in January this year. That is 11 percent more than January 2022, with an 8 percent increase in face to face appointments.
This shows why the doctor is just one part of #TeamGP, who are on hand to provide both healthcare and wider community support.
This short film from NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly explains some of the specialised roles in modern general practice. They enable people to get the most appropriate help more quickly. These subject matter experts reduce pressure on busy GPs and are often far better placed to help with your needs.
A clinical pharmacist can help with your medicines. They will make sure they are working well for you and can prescribe any changes.
Roles will vary from surgery to surgery. Increasingly, practices have a physiotherapist on hand. They can provide medicine-free pain relief for things such as headaches, neck ache, backache and so much more.
There are non-medical experts available from the team too. Social prescribers are at the heart of their local communities. They can support with all sorts of needs, from money matters and feeling lonely, to staying active for your health.
A care coordinator can provide help with treatment plans, finding care packages, and family support. For example, if one half of a couple is a carer for the other and has to go into hospital, the care coordinator can arrange a package of support for the person staying at home. This can be an invaluable service for patients, their families and loved ones.