Region launches new training for PMs
Released 21/07/2011
NHS South Central creates a brand new training course designed specifically for GP practice managers
New training programme launched for practice managers
An SHA in south east England has created a new training course for GP practice managers - which it claims is the first of its kind in the country.
The course, offered by NHS South Central, comes at a time when clinical commissioning groups prepare to take control of the NHS budget and practice managers will be key to the successful implementation of the proposed changes.
Currently, practice managers can pursue qualifications such as the level-five certificate and diploma in primary care and health management (DPCHM) from the Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Managers, Administrators and Receptionists (AMSPAR), as well as the newly introduced IHM Accredited Manager Programme.
NHS South Central argues, however, that there has never been a formalised training scheme specifically for practice managers, which it sees as a "disparate group" "pivotal" to leading primary care staff through the changes to the NHS, as well as supporting clinical commissioning groups.
The SHA says leadership development is "not a luxury but a necessity" to delivering high quality patient care and that leadership development should be available for all groups of staff including practice managers.
Maggie Woods, leadership development manager at NHS South Central, commented: "The role of practice manager is both challenging and varied. The scope of work can vary widely, but the independence of some GP practices leaves many managers feeling that they work in isolation and that the opportunities for development in all but the essential skills are limited this encouraged us to design this brand new course."
The Leadership for a Purpose programme is aimed at staff from all parts of the healthcare system, and is designed to facilitate the improvement and delivery of high quality patient care.
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