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We are seeking a Healthcare Assistant (HCA) for a locum role in a GP (General Practice) surgery, which will typically involve supporting the healthcare team in providing patient care and assisting with administrative duties. Here's a general job specification for an HCA in a GP surgery:

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Job Title: Healthcare Assistant (HCA)

Location: Willington

Reports to: Practice Manager/Lead Nurse/GP

Job Purpose:

To assist healthcare professionals in delivering high-quality patient care within the GP surgery, including clinical support, administrative duties, and maintaining patient safety and confidentiality.

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Key Responsibilities:

Clinical Support:

• Taking patient observations: Record blood pressure, temperature, height, weight, and pulse.

• Blood testing: Prepare patients for blood tests, take samples, and manage specimens.

• Phlebotomy: Perform blood draws (if trained).

• ECG preparation: Prepare patients and equipment for ECGs (Electrocardiograms).

• Chronic disease management support: Assist in the monitoring and management of long-term conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and hypertension.

• Wound care: Assist with dressing changes and wound care as needed.

• Administering vaccines: Administer flu and other vaccines (if trained).

• Supporting minor procedures: Assist GPs or nurses during minor medical procedures.

• Sterilize and maintain medical equipment: Ensure proper cleaning, sterilization, and stock management of clinical instruments and equipment.

Patient Care:

• Patient communication: Provide patient education and support for treatment plans, healthy lifestyle choices, and follow-up care.

• Pre-appointment preparation: Ensure patient records are updated before consultations.

• Assist patients: Help with mobility, transferring patients, and other tasks as needed.

• Supporting new patient registration: Assist in collecting necessary information for new patient registrations.

Administrative Support:

• Booking appointments: Help patients book, reschedule, or cancel appointments as required.

• Patient records management: Ensure patient records are accurately maintained and updated in the practice’s system.

• Stock management: Keep track of medical supplies and ensure they are available when needed.

• Handling patient queries: Answer phone calls, emails, and other inquiries in a professional manner.

General Duties:

• Maintaining confidentiality: Follow strict guidelines on patient confidentiality in line with GDPR and professional standards.

• Ensuring infection control standards: Ensure infection control protocols are followed to maintain a clean and safe environment for patients and staff.

• Supporting the wider healthcare team: Work collaboratively with doctors, nurses, and administrative staff to ensure smooth practice operations.

• Promoting patient safety: Ensure that all healthcare activities are carried out with attention to patient safety.

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Skills and Qualifications:

• Essential:

• Previous experience in a healthcare setting (preferably in primary care or GP surgery).

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Basic understanding of medical terminology and healthcare procedures.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Good organizational skills and ability to manage time effectively.

• Compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care.

• Strong attention to detail.

• Desirable:

• Phlebotomy training (or willingness to be trained).

• Experience with clinical software (SystmOne).

• First aid certification.

• Basic life support (BLS) certification.

• Experience in managing medical records and administrative tasks.

Personal Attributes:

• Caring, approachable, and patient-focused.

• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

• Adaptable and willing to learn new skills.

• Discreet, professional, and trustworthy.

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Working Conditions:

• Full-time or part-time positions available.

• Working hours typically range from [insert working hours].

• May require weekend or evening shifts depending on the practice’s operating hours.

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