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An easier way to keep up with the News!
Our News page keeps everyone up to date with what is happening, as it happens, whether it’s changes to the e-portfolio, MRCGP assessments, GP training or the website.
Vitamin D supplementation in pregnancy and infancy
The UK Chief Medical Officers are aware that some of the UK population may be at risk of vitamin D deficiency. This is a concern, particularly for at-risk groups such as pregnant women and infants and young children, which is why I and the Chief Medical Officers for the United Kingdom , are writing to health professionals to increase awareness of this important issue. Please see the attached letter with full details (click)
3/2/12 |
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NICE guidance on Epilepsy (Primary & Secondary Care)
A useful document (click) for those of you sitting the AKT but also those of you planning for the CSA!
27/1/11 |
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Treating hypertension on octogenarians
The Hypertension in the Very Elderly Trial (HYVET) is an mportant trial in establishing the benefits of treatment of hypertension in the very elderly. It showed that the use of antihypertensive drugs to reduce high blood pressure in patients aged 80 years or more was associated with a significant and marked reduction in the incidence of stroke and heart failure. It also found that treatment reduces all cause mortality, which means that cardiovascular protection translates into increased life expectancy.
Read more in this weeks BMJ
6/1/11
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Time to book Pennine's Exit Course
Our 2 day course is aimed primarily at GP registrars in their final ST3 year. It covers diverse topics from; how to get a job, life as a locum or salaried GP, avoiding professional isolation, career development to mock interviews!
It also covers; managing the transition from GPST to GP, 'what to do when things go wrong', appraisal and recertification, interview preparation and financial planning.
It only costs £150
So why not book a place (click)!
22/12/11
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Have a super Christmas Break!
All the team at Pennine wish you a super Christmas break and we look forward to seeing you in the new year.
22/12/11 |
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NICE and Caesarean Section
All pregnant women who ask for an elective caesarean section should be allowed one if they still want the procedure after being made aware of its risks and benefits, the UK National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) says.
Also women who have had previous birth by caesarean section should be offered a vaginal birth dispelling the myth that “once a caesarean, always a caesarean”
27/11/11 |
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Educational Supervision
GPSTs please make sure that your CSR has been completed prior to your Educational Supervision AND please don't forget to accept your Educational Supervisors Report by the 31st of December.
Educational Supervisors, the three dates on the e-portfolio ESR form which have to be entered correctly (for those GPSTs who are not out of sync) to set the dates between which all the CBDs, COTs, Mini-CEX will count are as follows:
Top date = 1/2/12 end of CBD/COT/Mini-CEX capture period
Bottom left = 4/8/011 start of CBD/COT/Mini-CEX capture period
Bottom right = day on which the review took place
11/11/11 |
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Lest we forget
The NHS was born out of the hopes and aspirations of people living in post war 'Austerity Britain'. They and the country had suffered a huge personal and economic cost during WW2 which has shaped our country and our public services since. In this remembrance week why not have a look at the tribute to the 55,000 aircrew who died in Bomber Command in WW2.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnnNCpH4s0Y (click)
11/11/11
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Book your educational review meeting now (deadline for completion, sign off and acceptance is 31/12/11)
1. CONTACT YOUR EDUCATIONAL SUPERVISOR!
Avoid contacting them at the last minute, as they may be on holiday.
Educational Supervisor contact details (click)
2. RATING YOUR COMPETENCIES
This is the e-portfolio based summative review and your Educational Supervisor will create a review within your e-portfolio after you have contacted them. This will allow you to complete your Trainee Self Assessment which must be done prior to your face to face meeting, as the e-portfolio will lock your Educational Supervisor out until it is completed!
3. WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU TO EDUCATION SUPERVISION?
The completed COT or Mini-CEX competency mapping forms (click)
The completed CBD competency mapping form (click)
Your Half Day Release attendance spreadsheet (click)
Also you must ensure that you have an e-portfolio entry detailing your reflections on your last post, as per Yorkshire Deanery NOE guidelines (click)
Ensure you have updated your self assessment in the e-portfolio (the 12 competency areas)
Your sick leave and complaints summary (click)
11/11/11 |
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A useful home BP diary which fits with the new NICE guidance
With the new NICE guidance home BP measurements are going to be the most pragmatic way for many Practices to establish the diagnosis of hypertension.
Have a look at this useful download (click)
22/10/11 |
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Vs 6 E-portfolio upgrade
PDP section -
Minor update to the layout of the PDP table.
Added the ability to create a Learning Log entry from a PDP entry.
Educational Supervisors Report (ESR) –
Restored the ability to navigate to pages in the ESR in any order.
Evidence section –
Additional text to clarify minimum MSF requirements in the evidence summary table.
Contextual messages added regarding viewing PSQ and MSF information including next steps.
Updated the layout of the PSQ summary table.
Learning Log –
Added a timestamp to indicate when a Learning Log entry was ‘shared’.
Updated hyperlinks for Curriculum Statement Headings.
Find out more from the updated guidance (click)
18/10/11 |
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Emergencies in General Practice - a one day course (March 19th 2012)
Aimed at GP Registrars in ST1 & 2 this course will help you manage common medical and non medical emergencies which can occur in primary care whether it is the child with anaphylaxis, assisting at a RTA or helping with mid air medical emergencies. It also covers CPR, AEDs and allows you to obtain your CPR certification for MRCGP.
Click here for more details
12/10/11 |
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New UKMEC guidelines on emergency contraception
Have a look at the new guidelines which came out this month Emergency contraception (click)
26/9/11 |
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Hypertension - New NICE Guidelines
Have a look at the new NICE guidance which advocates changes to the way we manage patients with hypertension (click)
23/8/11 |
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Stable Angina - NICE 2011
The new guidelines from NICE clarify
- The role of the anti-anginal drug Ranolazine
- 999 rules
- Situations where there are survival advantages of CABG over PCI
Have a look at the download Stable angina - NICE 2011 (click)
13/8/11 |
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New guidelines for Epilepsy and Parkinson's Disease
Have a look at Calderdale's new guidelines for Epilepsy and Parkinson's Disease
Epilepsy - clinical guidelines from Calderdale 2011
Parkinson's Disease - clinical guidelines from Calderdale 2011
24/7/11 |
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More CSA resources
We have added a new webpage which has videos of CSA cases - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly (click). You can watch these videos using the CSA scoring download and the consultation skills spotting download to help you develop your consultation and feedback skills to your peers within your CSA work groups!
22/7/11 |
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PSQ medians and means to be removed from the e-portfolio
Following the Pennine team pointing out to the RCGP that the PSQ median and means were always 4 and unrelated to performance they will be removed from the e-portfolio in a mini update due in Sept/Oct.
They will return once the IT glitch has been sorted!
12/7/11 |
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CSA tips
One of our Registrars scored 98 out of 117 in the recent CSA exam and she has updated our download Tips for the CSA (click) - well done Katie!
11/7/11 |
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Say hallo, wave goodbye
The team at Pennine would like to wish all our ST3s the best of luck as they enter the world of General Practice. To help us improve our training please ensure that you have completed the feedback form (click) and sent it to Moira.
For GP Trainers we have a structured reference template (click) from our Tools for Improving Training webpage which ensures a global assessment of a GPSTs competencies. Furthermore, we have lots of useful downloads for Trainers and Practice managers to plan and facilitate GPST induction (click).
10/7/10
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Contraception and HRT Course for GP Trainees Sept 26th
This excellent one day course is a very practical course which helps equip you
with the knowledge and skills for managing contraception and HRT issues that
commonly arise in GP consultations.
Speak to your peers who went on it last year - great reviews!
Contraception and HRT in the consultation - A guide for GP Trainees (click)
24/6/11 |
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The World Cup comes to Manchester!
Dr Arif Kazi, one of our Programme Directors, plays for the British Medics Football Team. This year is World Cup year and the tournament is being held in Manchester.
Arif and the team are raising money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, which is a charity aiming to find a cure for Type 1 diabetes, so please make a donation to help support Arif's good cause.
To make a donation just click on the link below
http://www.justgiving.com/BritishMedicalFootballTeam
Visit Dr Kazi`s team page to follow his progress on the website.
http://www.britishmedicalfootballteam.co.uk/
Why not come come and see Arif and the team play in Salford In late July 2011?
17/6/11 |
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AKT feedback from the May Exam
For AKT 12, the overall pass rate was 72.6% for all candidates taking the test. The pass rate for ST3 first-time takers was 81.9% and for ST2 first-time takers 75%.
The mean scores by subject area were:
● 'Clinical medicine': 74.4 %
● ‘Evidence interpretation’: 74.2 %
● ‘Organisational’: 73.4 %
See the detailed feedback on GPSTs' areas of weakness (click) which should help plan your revision. Please note their comment on a significant proportion of incorrect answers given to items testing management of basic medical emergencies!
3/6/11 |
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One that got under the radar
The WHO in January added HBa1c as a diagnostic test for Type 2 diabetes in non pregnant adults. Here is a summary of how to make the diagnosis. This month NICE have included this change in their guidance.
Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed in adults who are not pregnant by a glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level of 6.5% (48 mmol/mol) or above.
A diabetes diagnosis can also be made by:
• random venous plasma glucose concentration the same or greater than 11.1 mmol/l; or
• fasting venous plasma glucose concentration the same or greater than 7.0 mmol/l; or
• 2-hour venous plasma glucose concentration the same or greater than 11.1 mmol/l 2 hours
after 75 g anhydrous glucose in an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).
In patients without symptoms, the test must be repeated to confirm the diagnosis.
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Reflections on a meeting at the Deanery
1. The structure of the Deanery, the lack of a Dean, the relationship between the Director of GP and Deputy Dean were discussed, as was the stripping of funding way from GP training.
2. The importance of detailed descriptive CSRs and Educators' Notes within the e-portfolio for GPSTs with problems was explored and the importance of disseminating this to Trainers.
3. Underperforming GPSTs are now being released from training after an appropriate extension (3 months usually) to ST1 rather than letting them struggle on to fail after ST3.
4. All 4 GPSTs released from training so far this year (4) have been released because of failure to engage with WBPA and not exam failure. Of these two appealed (CSRs and Educators' Notes became essential evidence in this process).
5. Evidence which identifies under performers from those on track includes: ESR, GP Trainer CSRs, Educators' Notes, MSF, e-portfolio use, AKT/CSA results and lastly other aspects of WBPA.
6. Extension to training due to exam failure can't be guaranteed but is likely to be limited to a time period until the next exam sitting and not the result. Due to funding issues it may be a part time post. GPSTs who fail their last attempt at an exam in an extension to training carry on working until their training number is removed.
26/5/11 |
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Updated advice on missed contraceptive pills
The Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare has produced updated guidance on missed pills (click) which is essential reading for all GPs.
21/5/11 |
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A pragmatic guide to appraisal and revalidation with useful downloads for GPs and GP Appraisers
To help support those GPSTs finishing in August we have produced a new webpage with lots of useful downloads relating to appraisal and re-validation.
Why not have a look? (click)
14/5/11 |
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Increased risk of VTE with drospirenone containing cocp e.g. Yasmin
Make sure you read this week's BMJ lead editorial (click) which details studies showing a possible twofold to threefold increase in risk of vte in drospirenone containing combined oral contraceptives e.g. Yasmin compared to those containing levonorgestrel e.g. Microgynon 30.
30/4/11 |
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Explaining common medical conditions
Review our YouTube clips (click) and assess their strengths and weaknesses to help you perfect your explanations of common medical conditions.
Remember, a good explanation should be stripped of medical jargon, use terms, analogies or diagrams which help patient understanding and should be adapted to reflect their ideas, concerns and expectations.
These video clips could be improved, why not have a go yourself and send me the video or upload onto YouTube and I will embed the link in our website?
16/4/11
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RCGP revalidation e-portfolio guidance for GPs & Appraisers
At last we have an excellent screen-shot by screen-shot guide for qualified GPs and their appraisers on how to use the RCGP revalidation e-portfolio (click)
7/4/11 |
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February - March 2011 CSA - Results Summary
1903 candidates sat CSA examinations between 5 February and 12 March 2011, 1729 (90.9%) of whom were first time applicants. 1431 candidates in all were successful resulting in an overall pass rate of 75.2%. The pass rate for first time applicants was 79.8%. 66 candidates were making a fourth attempt or more at the examination and of these just 16 were successful.
The mean score for the entire cohort was 82.3 out of 117, with the best candidate obtaining 114 marks. Four candidates on this occasion scored just 41 marks.
5/4/11 |
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Tutorial Log for GPSTs and Trainers
Following a recent Trainers’ Workshop and a TQA re-approval seminar the team at Pennine have created a tutorial log to help GPSTs with their e-portfolio entries & PDPs. It also helps Trainers develop their tutorial skills and provides a useful record for TQA re-approval.
Tutorial Log for GPSTs and Trainers (click)
3/4/11 |
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Practice Variation - The NHS atlas
A thought provoking project detailing the variance in clinical practice throughout England & Wales ranging from diabetes care to CHD mortality.
Why not have a look at where you work and see how you compare (click) ?
23/3/11 |
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QOF changes for 2011-12
Here is the summary of the new QOF targets (click), detailing those that have been dropped and those that have been added.
17/3/11 |
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Migraine and migraine prophylaxis
There is an excellent clinical review in this weeks BMJ focussing on the prevention of migraine. Why not have a look (click)?
8/3/11
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Fancy a walk in the Lake District? Try a HandiHike!
A superb series of over 60 walks in palm sized booklets with very high quality OS explorer mapping have been produced by Andrew Lowe and are available through Amazon. So if you fancy a walk in the Lakes, why not have a look at their website http://www.handihikes.co.uk/what-is-a-handihike/ ?
23/2/11 |
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The Good, the Bad and the Ugly from NICE!
The Good
Many of our hypertensives and diabetics have CKD3b and mild anaemia and this useful guideline (click) tells us how to manage them.
The Bad
Food allergy in children (click). NICE suggests we take a focussed allergy history and consider investigation of children with a history of constipation, reflux, infantile colic, eczema (Accounts for most children I see in GP surgery!).
The Ugly (or things you don't want to hear)
NICE guidance regarding anxiety and GAD is useful (click) but they do suggest sertraline as the first line drug (unlicensed use) and that SSRIs are the second BUT if you use SSRIs you should consider gastro protection in the elderly. Also if used in patients under 30, they should have to have suicidal intent assessments every week for one month!
26/2/11 |
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Hurrry! We have two free places on Pennine's EXIT Course March 14th & 15th
Due to cancellations we now have two places on our free EXIT course. If you know any ST3s in the Yorkshire & Humberside region who might like to come, ask them to contact Caroline (click) at CRH Learning Centre.
22/2/11 |
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November-December 2010 CSA - Results Summary
Following the shocking pass rate in September, everyone has been keen to discover the pass rate for the last round of CSA exams.
494 candidates sat CSA examinations between 24 November and 1 December, 329 (67%) of whom were first time applicants. 313 candidates were successful giving an overall pass rate on this occasion of 63%. The pass rate for first time applicants was 77%. 43 candidates were making a fourth attempt or more at the examination.
The mean score for the entire cohort was 78.3 out of 117, with the best candidate obtaining a score of 109 and the lowest just 40.
7/2/11 |
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Goodbye to Framingham & QRISK 10 year CVD risk!
The Joint British Societies are soon to announce that they are abandoning QRISK & Framingham 10 year CVD risk calculations, so we will no longer have the 20% threshold for guiding lipid and hypertension management.
In its place we will probably have the QRISK lifetime estimate of cardiovascular disease which enables clinicians to identify younger patients who are at high risk and provide earlier interventions.
Read more from the BMJ (click)
16/1/11 |
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What's this about aspirin and cancer Doc?
After the excitement in the press about the Lancet article patients have been asking this question. Unfortunately, the press have been getting excited over relative risk reduction rather than absolute risk reduction, so don't reach for the aspirin bottle just yet!
See for yourself (click).
30/12/10
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NHS direct telephone triage & OOHs
NHS Direct are changing the way you do things, so have a read of their latest guidance (click).
22/12/10 |
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Out with the old nMRCGP!
In line with the RCGP the nMRCGP is now becoming the MRCGP. Over the Christmas break we will plough through the web pages to make the changes but as we have over 1000 downloads these will only be changed as they are updated.
21/12/10 |
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AKT feedback Oct 2010
The pass rate was 72%.
Areas where GPSTs struggled included
- The diagnostic criteria of Type 2 diabetes.
- ECG interpretation
- Stages of childhood development
- Child immunisation schedule
- Safe prescribing of rheumatological drugs e.g. methotrexate.
See the detailed feedback
http://www.rcgp-curriculum.org.uk/nmrcgp/reports.aspx
18/12/10 |
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CSA pass rates back to normal!
After the shock of the very low national pass rates for the CSA in September you will be pleased to know that the Pennine GPSTs achieved an 80% pass rate in the November round of the CSA.
One of them achieved the highest CSA score I have seen since the new marking system was introduced, 97 out of 117 (pass mark 72) - well done!
The new CSA scoring system 2010 - This explains the new scoring system and how the pass mark is set.
17/12/10
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Assessing fitness for work and writing a “fit note”
This excellent BMJ article (click) offers advice on assessing whether patients are ready to return to work after injury or illness and whether job modifications might help them to return.
7/12/10 |
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Read our updated AKT tips
One of our GPSTs who have passed this October's round of the AKT (with flying colours) has updated our AKT tips (click). So have a read!
24/11/10 |
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Proposed HDR changes
From August 2011 our HDR programme and its delivery is to change. We are proposing dividing HDR into a repeating 12 month programme for ST3s and a rolling 24 month programme for ST1s & ST2s. Periodically the programmes will coincide with ST1, 2 & 3s integrated together in multiple small groups. Have a look at how the new programme may look (click).
Please e-mail Matt with your suggestions for some of the unfilled HDR slots in the ST1/2 programme.
19/11/10 |
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Avoid frustration! Ten Tips for Educational Supervisors
With the new version of the e-portfolio ESR form it's essential to get the process right, as failure to organise some key steps in the correct order will result in the e-portfolio locking you out!
Have a look at our download (click)
29/10/10 |
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Important AKT and CSA rule changes from the RCGP and Y&H Deanery
These relate to trainees who have started their GP training on or after 1 August 2010:
(1) There is a maximum of 4 attempts allowed for each of these exams.
(2) A pass now lasts for the duration of training.
(3) AKT, now tougher than before, can only be taken during ST2 or ST3 (and CSA, as now, can only be taken in ST3).
(4) The new borderline group method for CSA marking makes it tougher and the Deanery are expecting a rise in CSA failure rates.
(5) The Deanery cannot guarantee extension of training due to exam failure.
So read our downloads (click) relating to the CSA and AKT to help you pass first time!
17/10/10 |
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Professor Linda Gask will be facilitating our 'Trainers Away Day'!
After the success of our last 'Trainers away day' with Roger Neighbour we have arranged for Professor Linda Gask to help us develop our consultation skills teaching skills.
So make sure you book Jan 20th for study leave, as this is a session not to be missed!
29/9/10 |
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ST1s in GP placement - it's time to start your PSQ!
Many of you will now have had your formative (Y&H Deanery) educational supervision and be aware that prior to the (RCGP) summative educational supervision review, which has to have taken place by the last week in November, you must have completed; 3x CBDs, 3x COTs/Mini-CEXs, 1 MSF, 3 SEAs, given 1 presentation (HDR or at work), asked your supervisor to complete a Clinical Supervisor's Report and completed a 'reflection on post' entry.
In addition ST1s in GP placement will have had to complete and upload their Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire. As this requires 40 patients to feedback on your performance it can take a good few weeks to complete - so my tip would be to start it now.
26/9/10 |
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Assessment visit by the Yorkshire and Humber Deanery
This is taking place on Wednesday 22nd September, 1.00pm – 3.15pm in the Learning and Development Centre, CRH. All GPSTs in GP placement should attend. It's your opportunity to tell the deanery what we do well and what we need to change - so make sure your voice is heard.
All GP Registrars in GP placement should attend!
9/9/10
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Educational Supervision
The updated list of Educational Supervisor allocation (click) has now been uploaded, as have their contact details. Please contact them now to arrange your formative review by the end of September.
28/8/10 |
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The GPST trajectory for 3 years of training
This excellent document, with useful embedded links, details all the things you need to do and the deadlines for completion. A must read for all Trainers, Educational Supervisors and GP Trainees.
The GPST trajectory (click)
20/8/10 |
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CSA and AKT pass validity
AKT and CSA passes obtained after 1 August 2010 will no longer be subject to a three year validity limit.
Similarly AKT and CSA passes obtained between 1 August 2007 and 31 July 2010 by trainees in a specialist training programme will remain valid pending the award of a Certificate of Completion of Training (or Certificate of Eligibility for GP Registration).
Number of attempts permissible
From August 2010 a maximum number of four attempts will be permissible in both the AKT and CSA.
Those who commenced specialist training on or before 1 August 2009 will be permitted to make an unlimited number of attempts at the AKT whilst they retain a national training number. Further attempts will be permitted by those who have already sat the CSA for a third time provided that their national training number has been retained.
26/7/10 |
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Changes to the 'summative' e-portfolio based ESRs
Version 5 of the e-portfolio has significant changes to the 'summative' e-portfolio based Educational Supervisor's Report (which take place in Nov & May).
E-portfolio vs 5 changes with screenshots (click)
26/7/10 |
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Read the NHS White Paper 'Equity and excellence: Liberating the NHS'
Have a read of the new White Paper (click) which will change all our lives!
14/7/10 |
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We need your feedback!
In order to help us support our Trainers and develop our training practices we need your feedback. So if you are currently in a GP placement please complete our feedback form (click) and e-mail it to Moira.
6/7/10 |
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Do you know your SAMAs from your LAMAs & SABAs?
If not have a look at the new COPD management guidelines from NICE (click). Essential reading for GPSTs in GP posts and those who have yet to sit the AKT.
28/6/10 |
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Mustn’t Grumble
After the disappointment of the English performance at the World Cup and the dismay it caused I was reminded of a ‘memorable patient’. During my palliative care home visit she turned round to me and asked “Do you know the definition of lucky Dr Smith? It’s being able to go home at the end of visiting time from the Bexley Wing (The Oncology unit in Leeds).”
I always remember her and the perspective that consultation provided.
27/6/10 |
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CSA and AKT failure – where do GPSTs go wrong?
Nick Whelan (of the Deanery Performance Review Team) gave an excellent presentation on the reasons why GPSTs fail the CSA and AKT.
So have a read of the synopsis of his presentation (click).
20/6/10
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The CSA is changing (slightly)
The GPST experience of the CSA will remain the same, as will the marking schedule BUT instead of 12 cases + 1 trial case ALL 13 cases will count towards the exam! The pass mark will not be 8 passes but will depend upon the performance of your cohort - you will not know in advance what it will be.
17/6/10 |
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GP recruitment is changing for 2011
The stage 2 assessment (MCQ) will now be held at local Pearson VUE centres. The stage 3 exercises will consist of three short simulated scenarios (doctor-patient, doctor-health care professional and doctor-relative) and a written exercise (The group exercise and the long simulated patient-doctor consultation have now been dropped).
17/6/10 |
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ARCP Panels in the Y&H Deanery : the one-page summary
This summarises the process for the summer 2010 round of panels across the whole deanery (click).
In any round of ARCP panels, each trainee who is due a panel has one panel with one outcome. The panel is a two stage process, beginning with a local (scheme) panel and concluding with a central (deanery) panel which takes place a couple of weeks after the round of local panels has concluded. Each of the three areas (Leeds, NEYNL and Sheffield) hold central panels in their respective offices.
Trainees who are given a satisfactory panel outcome by the local panel, or are out of programme, do not need to be further considered by the deanery panel.
7/6/10 |
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End of life treatment and decision making
This new guidance from the General Medical Council (click), based on best practice, will advise and assist clinician’s in providing the best possible care for patients who require end of life care.
The document also provides legal and ethical advice for the dilemmas associated with end of life care and is essential reading for all GP’s.
2/6/10
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DAAG News Letter May 2010
Make sure you read the May News Letter (click). The Deanery Assessment Advisory Group (click) are the Y&H Deanery group who set the hoops through which you have to jump! They also provide a wide array of useful resources.
15/5/10 |
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Preparing for Educational Supervision
It's that time again! Please make sure you arrange your summative RCGP Educational Supervision prior to May 29th.
Things you must bring to the Educational Supervision meeting:
Please make sure you read the download on Preparing for Educational Supervision (click) as this will help ensure that you get the most out of the review.
11/5/10 |
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PSQs and Summative Educational Supervision
If you are in GP placement (ST2 or ST3) please make sure that you have started collecting your PSQs in order to ensure that all 40 are uploaded prior to the Summative Educational Supervision deadline of the 29/5/2010. Also all your MSFs, CBDs, COTs, Mini-CEXs, CSRs and Naturally Occurring Evidence for this ST year must have been completed by this deadline.
The Pennine ARCP panel sits on June the 10th so make sure that all your e-portfolios are in good order and complying with our WBPA guidance.
As Pennine's ARCP panel is on June the 10th, why not read our tips on how to avoid a Deanery face to face panel review.
1/5/10 |
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Clarification of ARCP panel OOHs expectations 2010
Some of you have spotted conflicting advice on the Y&H Deanery website regarding OOHs requirement. It says 6 x 6 hour sessions per six months in the NOE section and 6 x 4 to 6 hour sessions in the OOHs section.
Here is the clarification from the Deanery (click)
17/4/10 |
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Joint Injection Course
Please have a look at the flyer for this excellent joint injection course (click) being held in Bradford on May the 25th.
16/4/10 |
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The National Training Survey is being launched from April 2010
Your response is important. You will receive (via e-mail from the PMETB/GMC survey team) a request to complete the trainer or trainee survey. Please take the time to do this!
Who needs to take part?
GPSTs and GP trainers.
Why bother?
It is your opportunity as a trainer or trainee to give your views of the training you deliver or receive. In turn this enables PMETB to ensure suboptimal posts are improved and good posts are recognised.
2/4/10 |
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The PMETB and GMC have now merged
Following the merger of the Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board (PMETB) with the General Medical Council (GMC) on 1 April 2010, the GMC is now responsible for regulating all stages of medical education in the UK.
The content on the PMETB website has been integrated into the relevant sections of the GMC website.
The GMC Contact Centre on 0161 923 6602 (from outside the UK: +44 161 923 6602), will be able to answer your query or redirect you to the appropriate contact within the GMC.
1/4/10 (No it's not an April Fool's joke!)
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CSA preparation for Trainers and GPSTs
Simon Hall and Mike Thomson from the Deanery have written an excellent review of how GPSTs and Trainers can use the CSA feedback in the event of CSA failure.
It is also a very useful document as a basis for understanding the domains the examiners are assessing.
You can find it in the CSA part of the nMRCGP section of the website with other resources or click on this link (click).
31/3/10 |
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The ACCORD trials - changing targets for patients with Type 2 diabetes
The three trials collectively known as ACCORD compared intensive control with standard control of blood sugar, blood lipids, and blood pressure in 5000 people with type 2 diabetes and a high risk of cardiovascular disease. Results do not support more intensive treatment of blood pressure (sys lower than 135, Hba1c < 6.5% or lipids with a fibrate + statin.
Find out more (click)
29/3/10 |
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Major changes to the way we investigate suspected IHD
- Suspected angina should be diagnosed with an Exercise Stress Test = True/False?
- All patients with suspected MI should be given high flow oxygen until the ambulance arrives = True/False?
If you answered True then you need to read the new guidance on suspected angina from NICE! Investigation of suspected cardiac chest pain (click)
25/3/2010 |
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What must I do by when?
In addition to the RCGP minimum WBPA criteria (click) the Yorkshire Deanery demands other criteria:
Non WBPA MINIMUM criteria to be achieved prior to the end of the ST year
ST1
96 quality log entries (12 pages of the e-portfolio) and 18 SMART PDP entries
Reflections on post held, 2 Presentations, 6 x SEA
ST2
112 additional quality log entries (14 additional pages of the e-portfolio and an additional 18 SMART PDP entries - Running total = 26 pages of e-portfolio entries and 36 SMART PDP entries. Reflections on post held, 4 Presentations, 12 x SEA
ST3
144 additional quality log entries (18 additional pages of the e-portfolio) and an additional 18 SMART PDP entries - Running total = 44 pages of e-portfolio entries and 54 SMART PDP entries. Reflections on post held, 6 Presentations, 18 x SEA, 1 x two cycle audit
Please note that this is the minimum assuming that ALL the entries are quality entries. Have a look at the nMRCGP section (click) for more details
21/3/10 |
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Updated CCT guidance
The Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) confirms satisfactory completion of an approved programme of training and is one of the certificates which allows entry to the GMC Specialist or GP Registers.
See the 2010 guidance on CCT from PMETB (click)
1/3/10 |
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Fit Notes
Sick note certification changes in the UK from April 2010 when Fit Notes will replace the traditional sick note. The Fit Notes will have a tick list of options on how the employer can help someone return to work and it currently (it may change over time) has four options that the doctor can choose from:
1. A phased return to work
2. Amended duties
3. A change to existing hours of work
4. Workplace adaptations
The doctor will also be able to write any comments in a comments box if he/she thinks that more explanation is needed. The Fit Note doesn't allow the doctor to confirm that the patient is fit for work (due to implications for employers' liability insurance) but allows the doctor to select:
- Unfit for work, or
- May be fit for some work, taking account of the following advice
The maximum period such a medical statement can cover will be reduced from six to three months (during the first six months of a health condition).
Med 4s, Med 5s, Med 6s and the RM7s are all being withdrawn.
Click here to read a summary or here for the detailed review with photos of the new notes
19/2/10 |
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DAAG newsletter February 2010 - ARCP guidance
Please read and absorb the implications of this extract from the Deanery DAAG newsletter!
For the June ARCP panels we should be giving a clear message to educational supervisors and trainees that after two years of using workplace based assessment and the eportfolio, and time spent this year publicising our own need for certain “naturally occurring evidence” the time for leniency shown towards trainees with missing pieces of evidence should cease. The RCGP external assessors have given the message that deaneries have been giving too many satisfactory outcomes where the evidence has been incomplete.
You have all been warned.
Click here to read more from the DAAG newsletter
10/2/10 |
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GP Revalidation - the CPD credit system updated
The new 2010 guide to revalidation has just been released (click). In this there has been a further clarification of the CPD credits system i.e. it's been simplified. Some cynics might say that each new version represents a dumbing down of revalidation due to political expediency!
The RCGP is using a learning credits system with a minimum of 50 credits in a year and 250 credits in a 5-year cycle to support a positive revalidation decision.
In essence 1 hour of education is one learning credit. However, if that education leads to changes for patients, the doctor or practice, the GP can claim two learning credits for each hour of such education. Credits are self assessed and verified at appraisal.
All GPs will, therefore, be expected to record their educational activity and award themselves credits based upon the hours involved and the impact of the education on themselves, their patients or the service in which they work.
Over a revalidation cycle a GP will be expected to demonstrate a broad range of general practice education.
30/1/10 |
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Alternative to audit or QOF reflection for GPTS
Patient safety is becoming a priority issue at the strategic health authority
and as a consequence it is percolating down through the Deanery. At a recent
meeting with Adrian Dunbar he agreed that a good quality piece of work using a
number of cycles of the Primary Care Triggering Tool could be used in place of
the NOE requirement for audit or QOF reflection.
Find out more..(click)
25/1/10
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Trainer re-approval is changing
The GP Trainer re-approval process which changed in 2008 is being altered again in 2010. The Practice visit is to be re-introduced in 2010/11, however, it will either be looking at specific areas and performances of the Practice or simply a random check to ensure that the Practice is maintaining accreditation standards.
Trainers will continue to attend the two day Teaching Quality Assurance Seminar (TQA). This seminar forms part of the new GP Trainer re-approval process and provides time for review and discussion of teaching, trainer and practice development.
The good news is that re-accreditation will be occuring every five years rather than every three. Also the Practice visit will be Practice specific, rather than Trainer specific, so if you have more than one Trainer your Practice is still only assessed every five years.
15/1/10
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Avoiding ARCP panel review
Read Adrian Dunbar's (Panel Chair for the Deanery) review of the reasons for panel referral during this round of panels (click) and try to avoid the same mistakes. Also have a read of the News entry from the 16/12/09 which explains some of the e-portfolio areas that are coming under closer scrutiny.
4/1/10 |
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ARCP update
I have just finished sitting on an ARCP panel as the Deanery in Leeds. I always thought myself a hawk but I realised that now I’m considered a dove. As one panel member reminded me ‘doves get shot, plucked, stuffed and roasted’, which tells you about the shift in the level of scrutiny and the attitudes of panels to grey areas!
So in addition to the points highlighted last time (see the bottom of this page - click) the Deanery are specifically expecting GPSTs to follow their guidance for Natural Occurring Evidence (click)
This means that for those GPSTs about to have a panel review at ST transition they must have documented:
- At least 6 SEA entries within the ST year.
- A case study or presentation (e.g. HDR group work would count).
- At the end of every post have an entry reflecting on the post (those who were in GP can use/upload the questionnaire which Moira sends out). But all docs at the end of every hospital post must have a reflection on post entry as per Deanery guidance.
- By the final Ed Sup review in ST 3 completed an audit (going through the cycle twice) or a reflection on QOF performance.
- The trainees must complete the self assessment section of the e-portfolio.
- The Ed Sups must complete their review of competency prior to panel reviews irrespective of ST stage.
16/12/09 |
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Reflections on the CSA from someone who passed
1. What was it like?
Quite intense – especially as I did the afternoon session and was locked up for 2 hours in a room with 50 other candidates immediately prior to starting. For this reason I would suggest doing the morning session or at least bringing something to eat and drink. The actors were not very 'giving' with regards to the history - especially compared to the mocks here and at Croydon (something we all felt was more than just exam nerves).
It was well organised and was actually quite realistic as the actors are on the whole quite believable and all the actors/assessors/staff are lovely and try to put you at ease.
2. What aspects of their preparation were worthwhile?
Without a shadow the best bit of advice I can offer is getting on the "CSA taster" course in the test centre itself. It makes such a difference knowing the set up etc. It is run just like the real
thing so it reduced my pre-exam stress. The Harrogate and Hull courses have also had good feedback.
You MUST also practice with a study group lots!! – a bit embarrassing at first but it really helps. Another tip is to 'bite the bullet' and video your surgeries with a view to feedback from your Trainer during tutorials.
Knowing your NICE guidelines and urgent referral criteria also proves to be useful.
3. What aspects of their preparation were least useful?
Most of the case scenario books - they are written by people who have not helped set up or sit the CSA. They are often more complex and demand too much - makes you feel a bit scared pre-exam.
Doing 10min appointments surgeries at work: in the exam you don't write and often don't examine! So don't stress re 10mins appointments.
4. What advice would they have for Trainers and Trainees to help them in preparing for the exam?
Joint surgeries are very useful, an opportunity to pick up tips and compare your performance with your Trainer. Creating your own scenarios as we have done at HDR - makes you realise what is doable and expected. Also don't forget what items they provide for you, if they have provided a tuning fork on the desk in one of the scenarios you will be expected to use it!
GOOD LUCK!!!!
15/12/09 |
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Microsoft Home User Program - Office 2007 for £8!
The Microsoft Enterprise agreement allows employees of NHS to participate in the Home User Program (HUP). HUP enables you to get a licensed copy of latest Microsoft Office desktop application to install and use on your home computer. For each product eligible for the Home Use Program you are a licensed user with active Software Assurance coverage, you may order a single copy of that product to install and use on a home computer. You may continue using this HUP software while you are under our employment and as long as the software you use at work has active Software Assurance coverage.
To access the Microsoft Home User Program please follow the steps below:
a. Access the Microsoft NHS resource web site http://www.microsof t.com/uk/ nhs/
b. On the Left hand side you will see a link to “Free and discounted software for NHS staff “ this link will take you directly to the Home User Program.
c. Enter your corporate email address and click the green arrow.
d. You will then be asked to sign into the Microsoft web site using your windows live ID, you can create one if you do not have one set up.
e. The next page should show your corporate email address and a code number all you need to do is click submit. At this point an email will be sent to your work email which contains a link to a web page that enables you to continue the purchasing process. I suggest that you complete the first part of these instructions from work once you receive the mail from Microsoft forward it home and complete the process from there by clicking on the link and entering the on line shop. Note: this program code is assigned to your Trust for our sole use in accessing this site. You may not share this number with anyone outside your Trust.
f. Place your order on-line and you can choose to either download Office 2007 or purchase a disc.
13/11/09 |
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Arrange your summative Educational Supervision session now!
The Deanery ARCP panels are being held in early December, so you need to have completed the minimum number of nMRCGP assessments and obtained your Clinical Supervisors Report (Yorkshire Deanery require this even if you are in General Practice) prior to your summative Educational Supervision which MUST take place before November 27th.
Things a Trainee must bring to the Educational Supervision meeting
- The completed COT or Mini-CEX competency mapping form.
- The completed CBD competency mapping form.
- Your Half Day Release attendance spreadsheet.
- Your sickness and complaints spreadsheet.
- Also you must ensure completion of your Clinical Supervisor's Report at the end of every post or prior to the summative (May & Nov) Educational Supervision meeting - whichever is the sooner.
Read more about the differences between the formative and summative Educational Supervision sessions (click).
31/10/09 |
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Validity of curriculum matching
At Educational Supervision one of our ST1s asked how they can ensure their curriculum matching is valid. Fortunately the RCGP have a detailed webpage covering this issue which can be accessed via an existing Pennine download in the nMRCGP/e-portfolio section of the website which is......
The curriculum and curriculum matching (click) - 2009
Utilising the broad principles of the GMC’s Good Medical Practice the curriculum defines the core knowledge, skills and attitudes that a GP Trainee have to attain by the end of their training in order to become a competent GP. It also allows you to assess whether your curriculum matching is valid. Just open the document and click on the statement headings and explore the domains of the 'statement' to find out what it means and how you might achieve it.
11/10/09 |
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What do we mean by competent?
The team at Bradford have developed a what do you mean by competent download? (click) which helps justify the grading of 'competent' or 'needs further development' in the 12 nMRCGP competency domains. So it can be of great use when validating log entries, e-portfolio based RCA and during CBDs. It also can help you think of ways in which the Trainee might have acted to reach the competent category, which is very useful when debriefing the Trainee afterwards and gives them more insight into potential "blind spots" in their consultation and case management skills.
10/10/09 |
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Appointment length for GPSTs in ST3
A question has been raised following discusion with our Educational Supervisors about guidance relating to appointment length changes during ST3 and post surgery debriefs.
Here is the guidance I have recently added to the example of a GPST timetable from the induction webpage which can be found in the GP journey section of the website.
Also relating to post surgery debriefs, which is a Deanery requirement, many practices have adopted the simple strategy of the Trainer (or the GP covering the Trainer while they are away) having a blocked 10 min appt towards the end of their surgery. This ensures that de-briefs always occur and makes the process feel less punitive for the Trainer or covering GP!
Matt Smith
26/9/09 |
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We now have a simple guide to SystemOne for OOHs
At Pennine all triage is performed by NHS direct and the clinical system they use is SystemOne. So if your going to NHD induction or have just done it prior to OOH triage, have a look at the download.
System One OOH Guide 2009 (click)
23/9/09 |
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Roger Neighbour will be running a consultations skills study day for GPSTs in ST3 from the Y-H Deanery
Dr Roger Neighbour author of a number of landmark books including The inner consultation will be running a study day for GPSTs in ST3 on November the 11th at the Woodlands Hotel in Leeds.
‘Consulting beyond the models', will focus on:
- establishing rapport
- identifying cues, patients’ hidden agendas, building concordance
- ‘house-keeping’
- developing process awareness
The Deanery will be sending the booking details & costs soon, so clear this day and book early!
Also he has agreed to facilitate a session for Pennine Trainers on the 10th.
20/9/09
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New Guidance from the Deanery on SEA, audit etc requirements for GPSTs
Have a look at the new guidance from the Deanery on SEA, audit etc requirements for GPSTs which has implications for trainers, Educational Supervisors, ARCP panel members and GPSTs click here.
3/9/09 |
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Arif Kazi - One of Pennine's PDs and the British Medics win the Football World Cup in Korea!
Arif (click) has just returned from Korea where he played in the Medics' Football World Cup winning side. Have a read of the press release and see the photos (click)
Congratulations from everyone at Pennine
13/8/09
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CSA - Does prior knowledge of cases help you pass the examination?
It has come to the RCGPs attention that a number of CSA ‘live’ cases are being circulated through the AiT community. These have been created by trainees who have taken the CSA or trainers who have collected them, promoting them as being helpful in preparation for the examination. The purpose of this document is twofold:
- to warn you against rehearsing cases that you think are part of the case bank and likely to come up, and
- to guide you into thinking constructively about the type of cases you are likely to meet in the CSA.
The RCGP would like to point out that candidates are asked specifically NOT to reveal the cases they have seen, and that copyright of these cases resides with the RCGP, who reserve the right to refer anyone found to be fraudulently using RCGP cases to the GMC, as we regard this as a form of cheating.
See the RCGP guidance in full (click)
21/7/09 |
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Tips and advice for OOH sessions - a super detailed review by one of our GPSTs
OOHs - a GPST's perspective (click) 2009 - A super detailed review of how to organise your OOH sessions and what to expect. Tips ranging from where to find the toilets or something to eat to where to park and what to expect from the OOH session and their various locations.
Thanks Fareed!
13/7/09 |
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A glossary of medical slang used by patients in Yorkshire
A useful resource for non Yorkshire graduates! If you come across any that are in common usage in Yorkshire please e-mail me.
Yorkshire slang - a glossary of slang terms used in Yorkshire (click)
4/7/09
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The Y&H Deanery advice on OOHs
Out of Hours News (click) 2009 - An updated explanation of how OOH sessions are organised and the Y&H Deanery's expectations of the number and type of OOH sessions to be completed by full time and less than full time trainees.
OOH record (click) 2009
A useful document (designed by one of our GPSTs and his Trainer - thanks Naim & Fiaz) to be used at OOH sessions which is completed and signed off by your supervisor at the end of the session. You can then scan it and upload it into your e-portfolio. It then enables your Trainer to log the competencies you demonstrated within the e-portfolio.
27/6/09
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The Deanery Assessment Action Group (DAAG)
The Deanery Assessment Action Group (DAAG) have produced a newsletter detailing their advice following a survey of Educational Supervisor Reports and e-portfolios from the last round of ARCP panels.
So if you are a GPST or an Educational Supervisor, you need to read this!
The Deanery Assessment Action Group (DAAG) June 09 update (click)
It's a large file and takes about a minute to download
2/6/09 |
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Updated NICE guidance on the newer drugs used in Type 2 diabetes
This short guideline describes the sequencing of treatment agents for the management of blood glucose control and gives guidance on starting insulin. Key changes to practice include the recommendations that DPP-4 inhibitors should be considered as a option when metformin and/or a sulphonylurea are not adequate. This guideline also reinforces the practice that human insulin (NPH) should be the first choice of insulin for most people who require insulin rather than analogue insulins. It also provides flow charts for managing hyperlipidaemia and hypertension in Type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes updated management flow charts NICE 2009 (click)
31/5/09
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Study Leave – Guidance for Practice Managers, Trainers and GPSTs
Following recent discussions we have clarified our advice for study leave during GP posts. This is in line with guidance provided by other GPST schemes within the Yorkshire Deanery.
Study leave during GP placements (click)
23/5/09 |
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Preparing for Educational Supervision
Things a GPST must bring to the Educational Supervision meeting:
Please make sure you read the download on Preparing for Educational Supervision (click) as this will help ensure that you get the most out of the review AND reduce the risk of ARCP panel referral.
17/5/09 |
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Happy Birthday to the Pennine Website!
The Pennine website has now been live for one year and in that time we have had 5000 visitors who have looked at over 41,000 pages. Most visitors are from the UK but we have had visitors from 33 other countries, especially the USA, Saudia Arabia, India and Pakistan.
So what is everyone looking at? Out of our 65 webpages the top ten most visited pages are....
1. Our News Page
2. Tools for improving Training
3. Clinical - downloads matched to the curriculum, just click on the curriculum area on the left hand side of the webpage.
4. Missed HDR? Get the downloads - loads of great downloads!
5. nMRCGP - from tips about the CSA & AKT to physical examination videos
6. Updated chronic disease management - EBM last updated April 2009
7. The GP journey - from GPST induction, allowances, locuming to pensions
8. Educational Supervision - Tools for Educational Supervisors
9. Tips for WBPA - COTs, CBDs etc tips and tools for Trainers
10. GPST induction - useful downloads
16/5/09 |
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Educational Supervision
GPSTs please make sure that your CSR has been completed prior to your Educational Supervision AND please don't forget to accept your Educational Supervisors Report by the 30th of May to enable the ARCP panel to read them.
Educational Supervisors, the three dates on the e-portfolio ESR form which have to be entered correctly to set the dates between which all the CBDs, COTs, Mini-CEX will count are as follows:
Top date = 4/8/09 end of CBD/COT/Mini-CEX capture period
Bottom left = 4/2/09 start of CBD/COT/Mini-CEX capture period
Bottom right = day on which the review took place
12/5/08 |
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Diarrhoea and vomiting in childhood NICE 2009
Read this excellent and pragmatic summary (click) from NICE.
1/5/09 |
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Support & Counselling for GP Specialist Trainees
Pennine and the Deanery have a policy for identifying and supporting GPSTs who may be in difficulty for a variety of reasons. Have a look at our new webpage which details 'who can help' and local & national resources for supporting doctors (click).
Also have a look at the download Trainees in Special Measures (click) - This explains the Deanery's policy of surveillance and support for GPSTs who are experiencing difficulties.
25/4/09 |
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A guide for mentors of intending Trainers
After IS1 all intending trainers should have an allocated mentor, someone who is an experienced trainer and is able to help them and their practice prepare for training and support them during their first six months of training.
Have a look at our guide for mentors of Intending Trainers (click)
25/4/09
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CSA performance indicators updated
The RCGP have produced an excellent summary of both the positive and negative performance indicators for the CSA domains.
Have a look at our updated CSA performance criteria download (click)
12/8/09 |
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The European Working Time Directive and its implications for Trainers and GPSTs
The EWTD has implications for both Training Practices and GPSTs.
Have a look at the EWTD guidance for GPSTs (click)
10/4/09 |
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The GP curriculum is changing
The new curriculum will come into force from August 2009. However, to give curriculum users ample notice of the changes the RCGP has posted the revised version already, together with a change log. Most of the changes are to update existing information, but there are also some changes to the learning outcomes and these have also been listed separately so that they can be referred to easily.
Please be aware that trainees who are working towards a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) will continue to train under the curriculum that was in force on the date their training programme commenced.
Updated RCGP curriculum (click)
8/4/09
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Mock video consultations to aid teaching COT and consultation skills
Useful for Trainers’ Workshops to develop Trainers' COT teaching and feedback skills. Also great for Trainers to facilitate tutorial sessions with their GPSTs without them being distracted by the worry of their performance - see our videos of mock consultations (click).
29/3/09 |
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The National Dementia Strategy has been launched
The main outcomes are 17 recommendations coalesced around three areas - raising awareness, early diagnosis and improving the quality of care.
The National Dementia Strategy (click)
14/3/09 |
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InnovAiT now available at a reduced rate for Trainers
The monthly InnovAiT journal from the RCGP rotates though the new curriculum over a three-year cycle. Regular features include:
- clinical and non-clinical themed articles linked to specific curriculum topics
- peer reviewed AKT questions linked to articles that appear in each issue
- key GP topics
- practical guidance and advice from a GP trainer
- nMRCGP preparation for AiTs
- practical guidance on learning needs from an educationalist
- news and updates
A great resource for Trainers and only £35 for the next year!
CLICK HERE to obtain this reduced rate.
12/3/09 |
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Getting more out of Case Based Discussion - Tips for Trainers
We have added another 'question maker' for Case Based Discussion. Why not have a look at our Tips for Cased Based Discussion (click)?
9/3/09 |
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A great resource for Trainers and Programme Directors
We have put together over 16 HDR sessions which can be used by Programme Directors or Trainers for their education sessions or tutorials.
Why not have a look at our education sessions ready for download (click)?
8/3/09 |
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Using the e-portfolio as a training resource
The Bradford GPST scheme have been using the e-portfolio as an educational tool in a way that has been stimulating to both Trainers and GPSTs. It also allows the Trainer to mark the discussed e-portfolio entries as ‘read’ and identify competencies, learning needs and help the GPST with their PDP.
Have a look and see how they do it - Using the e-portfolio as a training resource (click)
7/3/09
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Physical Examination videos for the CSA & General Practice
Have a look at these UK Teaching Hospital You-Tube guides to brief but competent examination technique - Ideal for the CSA and day to day general practice.
22/2/09 |
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Our Registrars' recommended 'good reads' has been updated
Now we have over fifty recommended 'good reads' which are divided into medical, medicine related and non medical sections.
Why not take a look? Click on recommended 'good reads' to find out more.
14/2/09 |
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Surviving the AKT
Have a read of the tips from our GPSTs who have just sat the AKT this week.
AKT tips 2009 (click) - Our Trainees' tips on how to prepare for the AKT.
31/1/09 |
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Have a look at the InnovAiT archive
All our GPSTs who have used InnovAiT have found it helped with both the AKT and CSA, so why don't you have a look at the InnovAit archive (click)
30/1/09 |
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Free prescriptions for cancer patients
It has been announced that from April 1st cancer patients will be able to receive all their prescriptions for free, even if the medicines are not related to treating the disease or its side effects, saving them around £100 a year. The certificates will mean patients will be entitled to free prescriptions for five years even if they are declared free of cancer before then and they can be renewed as many times as necessary.
Forms can be collected from GPs and cancer specialists during appointments and those received before March 24th should be processed in time for the April 1st implementation date!
28/1/09 |
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NHS Constitution for England is published today
This Constitution establishes the principles and values of the NHS in England. It sets out rights to which patients, public and staff are entitled, and pledges which the NHS is committed to achieve, together with responsibilities which the public, patients and staff owe to one another to ensure that the NHS operates fairly and effectively.
Why not have a look at the NHS constitution download (click)?
21/1/09 |
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Doc are these home BP monitors any good and how do I use them?
How often have I heard this in the last few months! Now there is an answer in this week’s BMJ.
Current guidelines suggest using a mean of seven days of monitoring, with two measurements of blood pressure a day (morning and evening) and the first day’s readings discarded. Upper arm (brachial pressure) monitors are preferred to wrist (radial pressure) monitors because few wrist monitors have been clinically validated and they are more dependent on arm position.
Most home measurements of blood pressure are lower than those taken by a health professional in the office—a meta-analysis found that they differed by 6.9/4.9 mm Hg and the difference varied with age and treatment.
Europe has settled on the diagnostic threshold of 135/85 mm Hg for hypertension using home measurements. Once BP is controlled then home monitoring (for one week) only needs to be repeated 9 to 12 monthly.
See the BMJ article in full (click)
4/1/08 |
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Guidance on the new SEA, audit/project and reading e-portfolio domains
New guidance from the Yorkshire Deanery for GPSTs and Educational Supervisors on the new e-portfolio domains which were added shortly after publication of the excellent e-portfolio pearls document.
Guidance on the new SEA, audit/project and reading e-portfolio domains (click)
9/12/08 |
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Updated guidance on Registrar sick leave from the Yorkshire Deanery
Have a look at the new guidance (click).
1/12/08 |
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HDR attendance
HDR attendance is now under scrutiny by the Yorkshire Deanery and regular audits are being conducted by the Deanery to establish Pennine's performance, as well as that of other GPST schemes in Yorkshire and Humberside.
Please can you start keeping a personal record of your attendance using the new HDR attendance download (click) and bring it to your Educational Supervision meetings. Not only does it calculate your % of attendance but it allows us to identify reasons for non attendance, such as post or workload issues, which we can then address.
6/12/08
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Updated Chronic Disease Management Guidelines
The six monthly update of our pragmatic, primary care orientated, evidence based guidelines has been completed and signed off. Why not take a look at the CDM guidance page (click) with all the updated downloads?
25/10/08
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Curriculum - self assessment rating scale
This helps Registrar's identify their learning needs within the curriculum and goes into much greater detail than the e-portfolio 'curriculum coverage' section. A useful way of identifying knowledge gaps and using it to plan learning.
Also it's a great way for Trainers to co-ordinate teaching when 'non Trainers' are involved in Registrar education within the Practice -Curriculum - self assessment rating scale (click).
19/10/08 |
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e-portfolio log entries - ARCP panel expectations
We are now getting more clarification about the standards ARCP panels will be expecting from e-portfolio log entries from the Deanery. Adrian Dunbar from the Deanery has outlined...
Panels will be looking for evidence of description, interpretation, reflection, action (change) and further learning plans with breadth and depth of coverage in all of the e-portfolio learning log domains. Assessments are only half the picture and naturally occurring evidence (log entries) will provide balance and enhance assessment. This multiple sampling of evidence provides triangulation and justification for ARCP panel outcomes.
14/10/09 |
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CBDs & COTs - Sharing best practice
At Pennine we are adopting an approach developed by Bradford VTS which has proven to work very well, for both Registrar and Trainer. Our Registrars now have to complete a CBD or COT questionnaire with each potential submission. This questionnaire details the competencies they feel they have achieved and how they demonstrated them.
This helps focus the COTs and CBDs ensuring that the Registrar and Trainer make the most of this formative and summative process.
See our nMRCGP webpage dedicated to CBDs and COTs (click)
4/10/08 |
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Less Than Full Time Training
Due to the drive to increase training capacity the Yorkshire Deanery can not guarantee LTFTT to new applicants and will be offering 50% LTFTT working as the primary option in hospital posts. This allows 'slot shares' and maximises training capacity. Currently there is still some flexibility in the % LTFTT in GP posts, although this may change. There is an 'exceptional cases' funding stream, primarily aimed at facilitating sick doctors returning to work, which will enable a few doctors to have tailored LTFTT.
20/9/08 |
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InnovAIT magazine - useful for Trainers as well as Registrars
InnovAiT is a journal which all GP Registrars receive on a monthly basis from the RCGP. It rotates through the whole curriculum for the nMRCGP on a three year cycle.
Each issue covers two clinical themes, and one non-clinical area alongside a news section highlighting important new policies, research and guidelines affecting GPs. In addition to this and editorials, the Journal has two regular columns: ‘From the Trainer’ providing guidance to supplement that provided by the AiT’s real-world trainer, and a column on exam tips from a recently qualified GP. Each issue also features ‘applied knowledge test’ questions and answers.
So don't forget to open the packet and have a look!
18/8/08
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Less Than Full Time Training
The guidance on the minimum number of Work Place Based Assessments has been changed from August 2008 by the RCGP!
The requirement for MSF and PSQ prior to each six month review in ST1 and ST3 will be changed so that for less than full time trainees MSF and PSQ will be presented at the review that represents the mid and end point review for ST1 and ST3 respectively. This ensures that there is sufficient time for appropriate feedback and any necessary change in behaviour.
The schedule with respect to DOPs, Mini CEX, CBD and COTs remains the same. RCGP 8/08
See an example of a schedule for 50% LTFTT (click) or go to the LTFTT part of the RCGP website (click).
15/08/08 |
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Basic financial planning and the NHS pension scheme explained
Whether you're starting or finishing your training scheme it's essential to get to grips with NHS sickness & pension benefits and basic financial planning. So, have a look at our new web pages which cut through the confusing terminology of financial planning (click) and the NHS pension scheme (click).
26/7/08 |
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Making the e-portfolio work for you
An excellent summary irrespective of where you are in your training, detailing the do and the don'ts for making the most of your e-portfolio.
Also a 'must read' for Trainers, Educational Supervisors and Programme Directors organising their induction courses!
Click e-portfolio pearls to download.
22/7/08 |
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Pennine now has a password protected confidential forum for Registrars and Trainers.
It has a Buy & Sell thread, recommendations of courses, books and resources as well as discussions relating to Training and medicine.
Please sign up to the invitation you will receive by e-mail, as we need a critical mass of people to make this a 'goer'. If you have not received an invitation then e-mail Matt Smith (click)
NB - please note that if you don't want to be sent e-mails from the group but still want to be a member that can fully participate this is an option which you can select at sign up or after sign up by editing your preferences.
Our forum is a Yahoo group called pennine-gp-training which can be found at http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/pennine-gp-training/ (click).
30/6/08 |
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Educational Supervision - the different reviews explained
Things are a lot clearer after our joint visit to the Deanery last week, please see the newly re-written 'Educational Supervision - a summary' download found on the Tools for Educational Supervisors page of the website.
The May and November meetings, the six monthly RCGP statutory meetings, are of critical importance with respect to possible ARCP review. These tend to be more quantitative, looking at whether they are on track for nMRCGP in terms of their assessments, PDP and the breadth and depth of their e-portfolio log entries. These are recorded in the 'Review section' of the e-portfolio & the educational supervision form is uploaded as a 'Professional conversation'.
The March and September supplementary Yorkshire Deanery reviews are more qualitative, looking at how they're settling in, the educational environment, educational theory and how it applies to them and their e-portfolio, advice on their PDP and how they might demonstrate the outcomes. These are uploaded as a 'Professional conversation' BUT not entered into the formal e-portfolio 'Review section'.
17/5/08
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HDR News
Venue: Learning Centre at Calderdale Royal Hospital (click)
Date: 7/2/12, meet for food at 1pm
ST1s & ST2s and ST3s - STD update
News & Updates
THE NEWS PAGE (click) - Keep up to date with what is happening, as it happens, whether it’s changes to the e-portfolio, MRCGP assessments or our website.
HDR HANDOUTS (click) - Missed HDR? You can now catch up by reading the handouts.
COURSES (click) - Have a look at the wide range of courses on offer for GPSTs throughout the UK.
Next Trainers' Workshop
Venue: TBA
Date & Time: TBA
Topic: TBA
Preparation: TBA
Future dates: TBA
Next Trainers' Away Day
Venue: TBA
Date & Time: TBA
Topic: Presentation Skills and Helping IMGs
Preparation: TBA
Educational Supervision Deadlines
The next deadline is 31/12/11 (Summative review for ST1s, ST2s & ST3s).
See our Educational Review guidance (click) which explains the different types of reviews. Please read our website disclaimer (click). |
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