Training of GPs/ GP Registrars
Upper Eden Medical Practice has become involved in training GPs. We feel that this enriches the quality of care given to the community by stimulating discussion and debate about new ideas and different practices.
Doctors undergoing training in general practice are referred to as GP registrars, formerly called trainees. All are fully qualified doctors, and some may have extensive hospital experience prior to coming into general practice. Training in general practice takes three years from the time of becoming a GP registrar to the time of qualifying to practice as a GP. The three years are divided in to selected hospital posts and time training in general practice. The GP attachment is usually split into a six-month spell in the surgery at the beginning of their training, and an six-twelve month spell at the end. Before becoming licensed to work independently in general practice, all registrars must pass a set of exams to prove their competence.
While undergoing their training, GP registrars are closely supervised and trained by an approved trainer. At Upper Eden we have one approved trainer, Dr A Tooze, although it is important that the whole surgery team participates in, and supports the process of training. Throughout their training registrars come under the umbrella of the North Cumbria GP Training Scheme, whose office is based in Carlisle
Patients should be aware that as part of the process of training, it is necessary that GP registrars discuss patients with their trainer. This involves confidentially viewing patients’ handheld and computer medical records. You can expect GP Registrars to provide a full range of GP services. If they are not certain about what to do they will ask more senior colleagues for advice.
Video Consultations
Patients are also key partners in the training process and the help, support and understanding of patients really is appreciated. One aspect of this process is the video recording of consultations.
This is an important part of training registrars in consultation skills, and in the process of assessment for their exams.
Patients will always be asked to provide their written consent using our Practice consent form and will never be recorded without this. Any intimate examinations will also never be conducted in front of the camera. If a patient subsequently wishes to withdraw their consent after they have been recorded, this wish will be respected, and the recording erased.
Recordings will only ever be watched by registrars, trainers, and possibly examiners if the recording is submitted for exam purposes. Recordings are saved to an SD card and when not in use the camera and SD card are stored in a room protected by a combination lock, the code of which is only known to staff members. Patients can also rest assured that neither the camera or the SD card is ever permitted to leave the Practice premises.
Patients should never feel uncomfortable about refusing to be recorded if they would prefer not to be. Please speak to your doctor or the reception team if you have any queries or concerns.