Health Care Support Worker URGENTLY Needed in the UK

Parkside Medical Practice is a dynamic and patient-centered healthcare provider committed to delivering high-quality medical services. The practice offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services including general medical consultations, chronic disease management, preventive care and minor surgical procedures. The clinical team comprises experienced General Practitioners (GPs), Advanced Nurse Practitioners and support staff dedicated to addressing the diverse health needs of the community.

The practice emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care, ensuring that individuals receive personalized and compassionate treatment.

The practice operates from a purpose-built facility designed to provide a comfortable and accessible environment for patients. The premises are equipped with modern medical equipment and adhere to stringent health and safety standards to ensure optimal patient care. The practice’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its provision of services such as home visits for patients unable to attend the clinic and extended hours to accommodate various patient schedules.

Additionally, the practice actively engages in health promotion activities, offering educational resources and support to encourage healthy lifestyles within the community.

While specific details regarding the founding year and ownership structure of Parkside Medical Practice are not readily available, the practice is known for its longstanding presence in the healthcare sector, serving the community with dedication and professionalism.

The team at Parkside Medical Practice is committed to continuous improvement and professional development, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of medical advancements and best practices. This dedication to excellence is reflected in the positive feedback and trust the practice has garnered from its patients over the years.

Parkside Medical Practice is a vibrant, welcoming practice seeking an experienced, enthusiastic and highly motivated Health Care Support Worker. This flexible and proactive individual will join our forward-thinking, progressive team and bring a passion for healthcare support.

Main Duties of the Role

The successful candidate will support GPs by managing clinical administration tasks including processing referrals for extended care, reviewing documents and coordinating communications with other healthcare organizations. Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting health checks for new and existing patients including NHS Health Checks
• Providing chaperone services when needed during patient consultations
• Making home visits to patients when required
• Managing laboratory samples as requested by medical staff, ensuring proper handling and processing
• Sterilizing, cleaning and maintaining surgical instruments and equipment
• Overseeing vaccine storage, ensuring compliance with cold chain protocols and keeping accurate records
• Restocking and rotating supplies including surgical tools and vaccines
• Preparing consulting rooms by clearing and restocking for patient appointments
• Assisting GPs in minor procedures by preparing and maintaining the environment and equipment
• Supporting patient health assessments and helping monitor overall health and well-being
• Engaging patients in health awareness, promoting well-being practices and encouraging preventative care measures
• Collecting and organizing health and well-being data for analysis and reporting

In this role, confidentiality is paramount. Patients trust the Practice with sensitive information regarding their health which we handle with strict discretion. The post-holder must respect patient privacy and adhere to confidentiality protocols. Confidential information, whether related to patients, carers, practice staff or other healthcare professionals, is shared only with authorized personnel in line with Practice policies and confidentiality guidelines.

Health & Safety

The post-holder will play an active role in promoting health, safety and infection control within the Practice. This includes following the Practice’s Health & Safety Policy, Infection Control policy and related manuals.

Key responsibilities include:

• Adhering to workplace security measures as per Practice guidelines
• Complying with national standards for infection control and cleanliness, along with regulatory and professional guidelines
• Managing specimen handling including collection, labeling and transport following correct safety protocols
• Safely managing sharps including proper training, usage, storage and disposal
• Implementing infection control procedures, ensuring workspaces are tidy, clean, sterile and free from hazards
• Identifying and addressing health and infection risks, reporting and escalating issues when needed
• Maintaining cleanliness in work and patient areas, coordinating with other managers as necessary to uphold high standards
• Undergoing regular infection control training
• Overseeing waste management, from collection to proper storage and disposal
• Following protocols for handling spills, decontamination and equipment maintenance to ensure sterile environments

Equality and Diversity

The post-holder is expected to support equality, diversity and the rights of patients, carers and colleagues by:

• Acting in ways that reflect an understanding of people’s rights, aligning with Practice policies and applicable legislation
• Respecting each individual’s privacy, dignity and unique needs, beliefs and circumstances
• Fostering a welcoming and non-judgmental environment that values each individual’s circumstances and respects their priorities and rights

Personal and Professional Development

The successful candidate will engage in continuous development opportunities offered by the Practice which includes:

• Participating in an annual performance review, maintaining records of personal and professional growth
• Taking charge of one’s own learning and development and assisting colleagues who may be performing similar duties by demonstrating relevant skills

Quality of Care

To ensure high-quality patient care within the Practice, the post-holder will:

• Inform team members about quality and risk issues
• Assess and take accountability for personal performance, whether independently or under supervision
• Work collaboratively to improve team efficiency by reflecting on activities and proposing enhancements
• Partner effectively with external agencies to fulfill patient needs
• Manage time, workload and resources responsibly

Communication

Effective communication within the team and with patients and carers is crucial. The post-holder will:

• Communicate clearly and effectively with colleagues, patients and carers
• Adapt to individuals’ needs for alternative communication methods when necessary

Contribution to Service Implementation

In alignment with Practice standards, the post-holder will:

• Adhere to Practice policies and guidelines
• Collaborate with team members on how policies and guidelines apply to daily tasks
• Participate in audits as relevant to the role

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential:

• GCSE Grade A to C in English and Math

Desirable:

• NVQ Level 2 in Health and Social Care

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This role is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 which necessitates a Disclosure submission to the Disclosure and Barring Service to verify the absence of criminal convictions.

Visa Sponsorship

Tier 2 (UK Health and Care Worker Visa) sponsorship is available for eligible candidates.

Here are 10 FAQs that could apply to a healthcare role at Parkside Medical Practice:

What qualifications are required to apply for the Health Care Support Worker position?

Applicants should have at least GCSE Grade A to C in English and Math. An NVQ Level 2 in Health and Social Care is preferred but not mandatory.

What kind of responsibilities does a Health Care Support Worker have at Parkside Medical Practice?

Responsibilities include assisting GPs with clinical administration, conducting patient health checks, managing lab samples, maintaining equipment and promoting patient health awareness.

Are there any specific skills or experience preferred for this role?

Experience in healthcare support roles, familiarity with infection control procedures and a proactive approach to patient care are highly valued. Flexibility and excellent communication skills are also important.

Is there an opportunity for professional development and training?

Yes, Parkside Medical Practice encourages professional growth through training programs, annual performance reviews and opportunities for skill development within the team.

How does Parkside Medical Practice ensure confidentiality?

Confidentiality is strictly observed. Sensitive patient information is shared only with authorized individuals, following the practice’s confidentiality policies and data protection guidelines.

Does the role involve patient visits outside the practice?

Yes, the Health Care Support Worker may need to conduct home visits for patients unable to attend the clinic in person.

What are the working hours for this position?

Working hours may vary but generally include standard clinic hours. Some flexibility may be required to accommodate patients’ needs and extended clinic hours.

Is Tier 2 sponsorship available for international applicants?

Yes, Parkside Medical Practice offers Tier 2 (UK Health and Care Worker Visa) sponsorship for eligible international applicants.

What are the health and safety protocols for this role?

Health and safety are prioritized with policies covering infection control, waste management, sterilization and safe specimen handling to ensure a safe environment for patients and staff.

How does Parkside Medical Practice support equality and diversity?

The practice is committed to a respectful, inclusive environment that values patients’ and staff’s rights, dignity and beliefs, in line with equality and diversity policies.