205 Turning a crisis into an opportunity for general practice teams in NI. (16th November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sands, Louise; Corry, Maura; McEntee, Siobhan; Mason, Ursula; Stirling, Patrick
• Is Part Of: BMJ leader. Volume 4(2020)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A77
• Page End: A77
• Publication Date: 2020-11-16
• Subjects: Medical personnel -- Periodicals; Leadership -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Practice -- Management -- Periodicals; Health services administration -- Periodicals; 610.68
• DOI: 10.1136/leader-2020-FMLM.205
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2398-631X

Abstract

Abstract : The emergence of COVID-19 saw a seismic change in General Practice with significant clinical, operational & educational challenges across the whole of the primary care team.Information & guidance from multiple different sources emerged at an overwhelming pace for practitioners.There was no robust way of cascading critical information to individuals.Shielded, remote & sessional health care professionals in particular lacked access to sensitive Health & Social Care Board information. It was evident that there was a need for a centralised information platform for professionals.This would provide easily accessible, accurate & up to date information on service changes, operational & clinical guidance as well as legislative changes. An MDT working group, with representatives from all professions including trainees was formed to design a central knowledge repository for the whole primary care team.This ensured all practitioners had access to the latest information, equipping them to deliver high quality care during the pandemic. From concept to website launch took just three weeks, with a live web-based educational programme starting just one week later & acting as a catalyst for enhanced primary & secondary care understanding & communication. There are over 150 attendees at weekly live ZOOM educational events, with the programme reflecting learning needs across the whole primary care team.Website analytics confirm 'Pageviews' >100, 000 & 'users' >7, 500 & rising with a global audience. A crisis can bring exciting opportunities & a highly effective team can be created from conception in less than 4 weeks with a shared vision, enthusiasm & determination to make it work. Collaborative learning between GPs, fledgling MDTs, & across the primary-secondary care interface has united colleagues around a shared purpose, starting solution-focused conversations.Working regionally has provided a platform for shared learning & standardised approach to high quality safe patient care.