The RCGP has published guidance recognising the additional need for governance around GPs working in extended roles (found here), this recognises the need for suitable training, supervision, and provision of evidence of competency and ongoing professional development.
Over the last 2 years we have been working to better define, promote and protect GPs working in extended roles, these have included:
- The creation of a standardised framework and defined career pathway for GPs wishing to pursue a career as a GPwER MSK Medicine that was formally approved and endorsed by the RCGP in September 2021.
- Created and agreed a standardised curriculum for GPs and those working with an extended role in MSK Medicine. This informed the new Diploma in MSK Medicine from the FSEM. The first sitting in Spring 2021 was highly successful; sat by 196 candidates (93 doctors, 101 physiotherapists, 1 advanced nurse practitioner and 1 speech therapist as well as similar numbers who sat the 2022 exam.
- We have created a multi-organisation working group comprising the FSEM, BASEM (British Association of Sport and Exercise Medicine) and the PCRMM (Primary Care Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Medicine Society). Working together on shared goals of supporting clinicians from a range of specialties to access quality support and education alongside other primary care organisations.
- We have an ongoing liaison and collaboration with Health Education England with members of working group involved in consultation on Advanced Practice Pathway. This has informed the approaches to the GPwER pathway and strengthened relationships with wider MSK community.
- We have active collaboration with allied health professional education groups. This has included liaison with MACP (Musculoskeletal Association of Chartered Physiotherapists) and established an annual joint study day and agreed vision with potential for further joint working.
- We are in the process of producing a workforce planning document that will help address existing challenges and provide a guide for the future. If you would like to get involved in this vital work, please contact the faculty office
Resources for GPwER
