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

New PMR guidelines 

The recently published guidance for the management of PMR (click) by the British Society for Rheumatology features in this weeks BMJ editorials. This excellent guideline is very Primary Care orientated and certainly exposed a Johari blind spot!

On a related note, last week's BMJ editorials explored the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw in patients taking low dose bisphosphonates (click), as used in Primary Care. Fortunately this seems to be low (1 in 10,000 to 1 in 100,000 person years of exposure).

27/2/10

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Med 4s, Med 5s, Med 6s and the RM7s are all being withdrawn.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

Please see this weeks BMJ editorial re Tamoxifen and Paroxetine

Tamoxifen's main pharmacological effects are thought to be mediated by an active metabolite called endoxifen. The bioactivation of tamoxifen to endoxifen is mainly catalysed by the cytochrome P450 isoenzyme 2D6 (CYP2D6). Certain drugs inhibit the activity of 2D6 and this results in decreased plasma concentrations of endoxifen.

In the linked observational study (BMJ13/2/10), Kelly and colleagues show that the risk of breast cancer related death is higher in women taking Tamoxifen plus the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) Paroxetine. The authors suggest that this is explained by inhibition of 2D6.

They found that the risk of death from breast cancer increased with the length of concomitant treatment with Paroxetine, but not with other SSRIs although there are doubts about Fluoxetine, as it also is a significant CYP2D6 inhibitor.

Click here to find out more

13/2/10

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

Financial Planning & the NHS Pension updated

Have a look at our updated web resources; The NHS Pension explained (click), Illness and death in service benefits (click) and Basic Financial Planning (click).

4/2/10

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

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

CSA and AKT news - the good, the bad and the scary!

The Y&H Deanery have published the pass rates for 2009, in the Y&H region the CSA pass rate was 89% and the AKT pass rate was 84% - both above the national average - well done!

As for the bad news, it seems on retrospective analysis that the AKT pass mark in the last rounds were set too low and that a more stringent pass mark will be applied in the future.

Now for the scary. In the next couple of years the RCGP are considering limiting sitting the CSA exam to four attempts (2 attempts during normal training and 2 attempts in extended training).

16/1/10

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

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

Happy Christmas from all the Pennine team!

Have a super break and we look forward to seeing you in 2010.

Ramesh, Matt, Arif, Roger, Moira & Elaine

Equipment grants from the Deanery - Christmas comes early!

As in previous years, the Deanery is once again in a position to provide funds for equipment to support training within approved GP training practices across the Yorkshire and Humber Deanery.

This funding is available specifically for items purchased by the Practice to support and improve their facilitation of training. For items already purchased you would need to attach all relevant receipts.

For items you intend to purchase you need to provide a Pro-forma invoice where possible. If you are unable to do so, you would need to give details of approximate costing for each item, along with some form of evidence to support this.

Please be advised that the maximum amount each Practice can apply for is £1000. If you would like to make a bid you will need to return the completed application form to Nathan Molyneaux in the West Yorkshire Locality Office, along with the aforementioned documentation by 19th January 2010. All applications will then be reviewed by Dr Liz Moulton, Deputy Director for West Yorkshire.

20/12/09

The Pennine Exit Course Book Now!

This 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.

Have a look at our courses section (click) to find out more.

16/12/09

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:

1. At least 6 SEA entries within the ST year.
2. A case study or presentation (e.g. HDR group work would count).
3. 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.
4. By the final Ed Sup review in ST 3 completed an audit (going through the cycle twice) or a reflection on QOF performance.
5. The trainees must complete the self assessment section of the e-portfolio.
6. The Ed Sups must complete their review of competency prior to panel reviews irrespective of ST stage.

16/12/09

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

E-portfolio version 4.1 is now live

Changes include

Pennine Christmas lunch & quiz

We have arranged a hot Christmas lunch prior to HDR on the 15th and 22nd of December with a Christmas Quiz on the 22nd which offers an opportunity to win wonderful prizes!

See you there!

8/12/09

New local RCGP courses announced

Intensive Communication skills 1 & 2 December 2009, Leeds

HIV in Primary Care 15 January 2010, Chorley

AKT Preparation Course 15 & 29 January 2010, Hull

Health & Work in General Practice 27 January 2010, Bradford

Also to be arranged very soon for the New Year:

- Minor Surgery

- 10 Minute CBT

Contact Fiona Lowndes for more details

20/11/09

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

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 listen to our link which tells the tale of some of the 55,000 aircrew who died in Bomber Command in WW2. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55QeB8_u_VQ (click)

7/11/09

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? Note the new changes to COPD and asthma management and the disappearance of aspirin from the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease!

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

Dates to be entered in the Educational Supervision Form

Registrars please don't forget to accept your Educational Supervisors Report 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 = 4/2/10 end of CBD/COT/Mini-CEX capture period (yes the rules do seem different than from before!)

Bottom left = 5/8/09 start of CBD/COT/Mini-CEX capture period

Bottom right = day on which the review took place

31/10/09

Swine Flu vacs to be released to GPs from Oct 26th

One piece of good news is that a single dose schedule for those aged 10 years and over (for whom Pandemrix is indicated) has been decided upon.

The clinical risk groups are listed below in order of priority:
a) Those aged 6 months to 65 years in current seasonal flu vaccine at risk groups
b) Pregnant women
c) Household contacts of immunocompromised individuals
d) People aged 65 and over in the current seasonal flu vaccine clinical at risk groups

Vaccine schedule (Pandemrix)
-  From 6 months to under 10 years: Two half doses (0.25ml) with a minimum of three weeks between.
-  From 10 years and over: One dose (0.5ml).
-  For immunocompromised individuals aged 10 years and over: Two doses (0.5ml) with a minimum of three weeks between.

The DH warns that vaccine wastage is likely to be greater when using multi-dose vials rather than single doses. Pandemrix can only be used for a period of up to 24 hours after reconstitution, if stored below 25C.

New antiviral guidance
New DH guidance advises that antiviral prophylaxis should NOT routinely be given to contacts of a case of H1N1 infection although prophylaxis may be considered in certain rare situations.

21/10/09

The CSR form has changed!

The CSR form in the e-portfolio, which has to be completed by GP Trainers and Consultants prior to the last week in November, has changed.

The updated CSR form from the e-portfolio 2009 (click)

Remember to have it completed prior to your summative Educational Supervision in late November.

12/10/09

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

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

We need an additional partner!

Why not come and join our team at Wyke? We are looking for a forward thinking
partner ( ½ to ¾ time ) to join our 10 partner practice which is a progressive
teaching & training practice within a purpose built building.

• Training Practice (Registrars/Medical & Nursing Students) for over 20 years.
• Large purpose built building which has just been extended.
• GPwSI services (MSK, diabetes, endocrinology, gynaecology, minor surgery etc.)
• Commitment to high quality patient care - currently part of the RCGP QPA programme.
•  Full complement of nursing staff (Nurse Practitioner, Practice Nurses, HCA)
• GPs are encouraged to develop individual clinical interests and practice development.
• SystmOne Clinical System, 10800 patients & 10 partners (8.5wte)

CV and letter of application to: Susan Dawrant (Practice Manager)
SunnyBank Medical Centre
Towngate,
Wyke
Bradford BD12 9NG
(Closing Date: 6th November 2009)

9/10/09

December 2009 – Deanery ARCP dates

There are relatively few trainees who require a competence progression review at this time (around 50 in the Y-H Deanery). The Deanery will therefore review all portfolios centrally on this occasion i.e. there are no local panels!

 Deanery ARCP panels will take place on the following dates:

·    Wednesday 9th December

·    Wednesday 16th December

·    Thursday 17th December

The Deanery will notify the appropriate trainees and supervisors by e-mail at the beginning of November.

It would be much appreciated if all educational supervision reviews could be uploaded onto the ePortfolio no later than Tuesday 1st December 2009.

29/9/09

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

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

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!

20/9/09

Contraception update

The BMJ have published a detailed review of VTE risk with different types of cocp (click) AND a detailed evidence based review of contraception (click).

11/9/09

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

RCGP have just released the revised guide on e-portfolio use for GPSTs

Have a look at the new download of the e-portfolio guide (click) from the RCGP which now has integrated the e-portfolio vs 4 changes.

29/8/09

Don't forget we need your feedback

If you were in a ST2 or ST3 GP post which finished this August we need your feedback on your Training experience. This helps us identify Trainers and Practices that are doing things well, so enabling us to 'share best practice' and those who are doing less well who may need support.

Getting feedback on the training aspects of the practice (click) - a template for providing a structured comprehensive assessment of your training practice.

23/8/09

Swine flu vaccination programme

The swine flu vaccination programme has been announced (click)

Also the RCGP have announced a revision of the revalidation guidelines (click)

13/8/09

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

Flu Pandemic - Implications for training

The Deanery have produced guidance on the implications for training during a flu pandemic. This covers issues relating to sickness absence, cancellation of tutorials, clinical supervision, cross cover and the ETWD.

Read the guidance in full (click)

4/8/09

Version 4 of the e-portfolio will be released 3/8/09

This new version brings a raft of changes which improves functionality and makes life easier for GPSTs, Trainers, Educational Supervisors and ARCP panel members.

Have a look at:

The summary of changes (click)

E-portfolio vs4 changes for Trainees (click)

E-portfolio vs4 changes for Trainers & Educational Supervisors (click)

To make the changes the e-portfolio will be off line for some of the time during the weekend of the 1st of August.

27/7/09

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

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

An Associate Programme Director has been appointed to Pennine

Congratulations to Dr Ramesh Edara, a former Pennine GPST, who will be joining the team at Pennine to help develop an array of courses e.g. the Pennine EXIT course, a minor surgery course, Trainer away days etc.

We look forward to him joining our team from August.

12/7/09

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

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

Have a look at the RCGP updated curriculum resources which help you address your educational needs

Version 3 of the RCGP Curriculum Map and Resources is now available (click). This tool enables you to search the curriculum and locate educational resources for general practice.

24/6/09

Additional paid medical work outside contractual obligations during GPST training

Recently the Deanery have clarified their position on additional paid medical work outside contractual obligations during GPST training.

Have a look at the Pennine Policy on ‘moonlighting’ i.e. additional paid medical work outside contractual obligations during GPST training (click)

20/6/09

Reflections of an ARCP panel member

With our round of ARCP panels just completed we identified a number of themes which emerged from the discussions at panel this year.  One consistent comment from both panels was just how GPST engagement with the e-portfolio and WPBA has improved in the last 12 months. Although some simple interventions may have avoided some Deanery 'face to face' ARCP panel referrals.

So here are some of the key learning points and suggestions...

Reflections of an ARCP panel member June 2009 (click)

13/6/09

Resources for Practice Managers

We've added a new webpage which provides useful up to date downloads covering all the employment aspects relating to GPSTs and the new training regulations.

Why not have a look and send the link to your Practice Manger?

http://www.pennine-gp-training.co.uk/resources-for-practice-managers.htm (click)

7/6/09

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

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

Don't forget to accept your Educational Supervisor's report

GPSTs please don't forget to accept your Educational Supervisor's report, which will have been completed prior to May 30th, from within your e-portfolio otherwise it can't be viewed by the ARCP panel!

24/5/09

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

Preparing for Educational Supervision

Things a GPST must bring to the Educational Supervision meeting:

• The completed COT or Mini-CEX competency mapping forms (click).
• The completed CBD competency mapping form (click).
• The COGPED OOH work booklet (if you're in a GP post).
• Your Half Day Release attendance spreadsheet (click).
• 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.

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

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

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

ARCP panel dates

The central Deanery panel will review all LTFT trainees and those who received an ‘unsatisfactory’ progress recommendation in their last panel review. Please note that ten percent of all satisfactory portfolios will also be reviewed by the RCGP external assessor for quality assurance purposes. The e-portfolios of all other GPSTs will be reviewed at the Pennine local ARCP panel on Thursday 11th June 2009.

In cases where either the local panel consider the e-portfolio to be unsatisfactory or cannot reach a decision, the GPST will be referred to the central deanery ARCP panel for a review in the presence of the trainee.

Central Deanery panels will take place on the following dates:

ST3 final reviews:      Wednesday 17th June

All other categories:   Thursday 18th June, Friday 19th June, Thursday 9th July

2/5/09

ARCP Panel Review - Reflections of a panel member from the last round of panels

Some of the important recurring questions by panel members were:

• Have they logged enough good quality entries (2 entries per week in hospital posts and 3 per week in GP, as a rough guide)?
• Are they of significant breadth and depth (multiple entries in ALL of the domains e.g. SEA, audit/project, clinical encounters etc)?
• Have they been mapped to the curriculum (on average 2 or more per log entry) and is the mapping valid?
• Is there good curriculum coverage?
• Have they completed the minimum numbers of workplace based assessments (CBDs, COTS etc)?
• Enough DOPs (DOPs on manikins in isolation don't count!) and OOH sessions? 
• Are they using their PDP?
• What does the ES report say (clear statements by the ES are very helpful)?
• What does the CSR reveal (especially if they were from a GP Trainer)?
• What do the MSFs say about the Registrar?
• What does the PSQ reveal about their practice (NB MSF was found to be a more important discriminator)?

2/5/09

Diarrhoea and vomiting in childhood NICE 2009

Read this excellent and pragmatic summary (click) from NICE.

1/5/09

Phase 4 & 5 alert algorithm for the management of returning travellers and visitors from countries affected by swine fever

Read the Health Protection Agency guidance (click)

1/5/09

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

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

Finishing your GP training in the next six months?

PMETB has introduced an online application system from May 2009 to enable you to apply for your CCT on-line within your last six months of training.  If you have not already submitted your CCT application form to PMETB please apply on-line at www.pmetb.org.uk/certonline (click).

18/4/09

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

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

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

The NHS complaints system has been updated

Have a look at the changes that have come into place since April 2009

NHS complaints procedure MDU 2009 (click)

NHS complaints - local resolution in detail MDU 2009 (click)

8/4/09

Child Protection referral pathways in Bradford, Calderdale & Kirklees

One of our GPSTs has put together this useful document for Training Practices and GPSTs - Child Protection referral procedures (click).

Thanks Fareed!

2/4/09

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

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

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

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

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

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

AKT examiners' feedback 2009

See where others went wrong and identify possible areas which will feature in next year's AKT by clicking on AKT examiners' feedback 2009 (click).

Also don't forget to have a look at AKT tips 2009  (click) - Our Trainees' tips on how to prepare for the AKT - The three Trainees who wrote this all passed!

28/2/09

Diabetes and driving

Have a look at the Feb 2009 DVLA guidance (click) and the excellent Diabetes & Driving download (click) from Diabetes UK which provides advice on hypos, safe driving etc. 

28/2/09

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

Contact Leanne (click)

21/2/09

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

Child Health Promotion Course June 23rd, 24th & 25th

A course being run at Calderdale Royal in Halifax

Objectives of the course:

• To provide a theoretical background to child health promotion
• To improve communication and examination skills
• To improve understanding and management of common paediatric problems
• To encourage opportunistic health promotion

Cost £250. Interested? Contact  Elaine on Tel - 01422 224190  or  Email - elaine.lodge@cht.nhs.uk

7/209

GPSTs assessment of their GP placements

All GPSTs have been asked to complete the new PMETB survey on line - but what were they asking?

Trainers may be surprised, as might their GPSTs, when they discover how hospital orientated the new The PMETB questionnaire 2009 (click) is - only a few questions specific to general practice!.

3/2/09

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

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

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

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

GP e-learning website goes live!

The GP e-learning website is about to be rolled out to all GP specialty trainees across the UK. e-GP is a comprehensive programme of innovative e-learning sessions, written for general practitioners and structured around the GP curriculum. 

All general practice trainees later today will be contacted to give them access to e-GP.  GP trainers can register by going to www.e-gp.org (click) and clicking on ‘Register’.  All trainers who have registered will be contacted in a few weeks time giving them their account details so they can use this new resource.

e-GP will be also available to the rest of the profession shortly and, as described above, non-trainees (or trainees who are not registered with the ePortfolio) will need to register to gain access. 

The e-learning content is being rolled out gradually over the next year and so not all modules or sessions are currently live and the number of sessions will grow year on year.  

14/1/09

How was it for you? PMETB want to know!

The Deanery have supplied your e-mail addresses to PMETB and they will be e-mailing you soon asking you to evaluate the training in the post you were in on the 2nd of January 2009.

The areas they will be exploring are:

1. What did you think of your training?

2. Did you receive adequate clinical supervision?

3. What worked well and what could have worked better?

Emails will be sent out during January and February 2009 from:surveyinvitation.donotreply@pmetb.org.uk. Upon successful completion of the survey you will be emailed a PDF receipt. This is important as your deanery may require you to produce it.

You can check your email address is correct by using a form accessible here:

www.pmetb.org.uk/traineesurvey . If you are not in the database you will need to submit your details for inclusion in the survey using the same form.

10/1/09

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

DMARD drug monitoring update for GPs

The rheumatology team at Bradford have just updated their DMARD drug monitoring guidance for GPs. Have a look at the summary in our updated chronic disease management guidelines (click) or read the detailed review (click) which tells you what to do with any abnormal monitoring bloods.

3/1/09

Did you know that Hba1c (DCCT) is to be phased out this year!

The expression of HbA1c as a percentage is to be phased out this year in the UK and a new set of units applied. So if you have no idea what a HbA1c of 58mmol/l means in terms of long term diabetic glycaemic control then you need to have a look at our HbA1c download (click).

1/1/09 - Happy New Year!

Say hallo, wave goodbye

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 facilitate GPST induction (click).

28/12/08

The recent amendments to the Mental Health Act explained

Many of the amendments to the MHA come into force in 2009 so have a look at our new downloads.

The updated Mental Health Act - an overview and workbook 2008 (click)

The new forms for the Mental Health Act 2008 (click)

How to fill in the new Mental Health Act forms 2008 (click)

20/12/08

OOH & ARCP panels

The Deanery seem hawkish in their application of RCGP guidance so beware!

"the indicative benchmark of twelve sessions is likely to be necessary over a practice year. For GP StRs undertaking more than twelve months of their programme in a general practice setting the number of sessions should be increased pro rata, ensuring that competencies that are achieved in the ST1 or ST2 years are maintained throughout training. It is expected that GP StRs in integrated training posts (ITPs) based in general practice should gain similar OOH experience to those colleagues undertaking traditional general practice placements. Those doctors who undertake training on a less than full-time basis should undertake the same number of sessions as their full-time colleagues but these would be attained over a longer timeframe."

16/12/08

Have a look at some of our new downloads

Here are just some of this weeks additions to the website.

Access to medical record MPS

Common ENT problems

Rheumatoid arthritis

Chronic renal disease

Writing a patient information leaflet

NHS complaints procedure MPS

13/12/08

ARCP Panel Review - Reflections of a panel member

Our colleagues in Bradford have collated their reflections on the recent panel process in which they were involved.

Have a look at the key learning points (click) which are relevant to Trainees, Trainers and Educational Supervisors. 

11/12/08

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

Updated guidance on Registrar sick leave from the Yorkshire Deanery

Have a look at the new guidance (click).

1/12/08

What do I buy them for Christmas?

Why not solve your Christmas dilemmas by having a look at our GPST's (formerly Registrars!) recommendations from our A good read download (click)?

8/12/08

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

The Yorkshire & Humber Deanery has a super new website

As many of you will know the Yorkshire and Humber Deaneries have merged and the new Deanery has an excellent comprehensive new website.

Take a look at www.yorksandhumberdeanery.nhs.uk/general_practice/ (click) or have a look at our Useful links page (click).

1/12/08

BMJ this week queries the value of aspirin in diabetics for primary CVD prevention

This is an important one! Already five patients this week have asked me about it after the Daily Mail highlighted the paper.

The use of aspirin for secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with coronary or cerebrovascular disease is well established and is based on extensive evidence from the Antithrombotic Trialists’ Collaboration. In contrast, studies evaluating the possible benefits of aspirin for primary prevention in patients without cardiovascular disease have been consistently negative.

The new BMJ paper adds to the seven well controlled trials which now show that aspirin has no benefit for primary prevention of cardiovascular events, even in people at higher risk. So will aspirin soon be disappearing from our national and local guidelines within the next year or so??

Click here to read the BMJ editorial

1/11/08

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

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

> 1000 AKT Questions on line & free!

One of our Registrars has discovered a super web based resource for the AKT which is a free bank of approximately 1100 questions with good explanations of the answers and web links to the relevant guidelines etc.

 So why not have a look at www.passmedicine.com (click)?

17/10/08

See the updated RCGP guidance on the e-portfolio for Registrars and Trainers

The Registrar's guide to the e-portfolio (click) - 2008

This excellent summary from the RCGP has lots of screen shots of the e-portfolio making it easy to follow. It's a large file to download but well worth the wait.

The screen shot by screen shot guide to the e-portfolio (click) -from the Trainer's & Educational Supervisors perspective - It's an even bigger file but again well worth the wait!

17/10/08

CSA - cumulative analysis of Registrar performance

The CSA examinations have been analysed and the commonest negative descriptors ticked by examiners have been identified. Surprisingly 'showing poor time management' only contributed to 3.9% of negative descriptors. The most prevalent negative descriptors were...

This reveals that achieving COT competencies is essential to surviving CSA, so why not have a look at our downloads relating to the CSA (click) and 'useful phrases for achieving COT competencies' (click). If you want to look at the full breakdown of negative descriptors see Page 2 (click).

11/10/09

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

Palliative Care Guidelines

Why not have a look at these super regional palliative care guidelines kindly provided Dr Mary Kiely, one of our Consultants in Palliative Care.

Palliative Care in Heart Failure - 2006

Palliative Care Symptom Control - 2007

Syringe Driver Guidelines - 2006

7/10/08

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

Seven great downloads from our Registrars

This week our Registrars have created seven great downloads for the website.

Why not have a look?

CSA orientation PowerPoint presentation (click)

Mental Capacity Act - PowerPoint presentation (click)

Managing abnormal LFTs (click)

Headache (click)

The doctor as a drug - PowerPoint presentation (click)

LBP red flags (click)

Obesity (click)

4/10/08

Good Medical Practice GMC & RCGP joint statement updated 2008

This core document that underpins GP Specialist Training and the e-portfolio, as well as re-certification and re-licensing of GPs, has been updated.

Click here  to read it in full.

22/9/08

ARCP panels are coming to you

The Yorkshire Deanery is devolving ARCP panels to GPST (VTS) level. The Deanery will still review all Registrars who are in Less Than Full Time Training and all ST3s who are coming to the end of their scheme.

The local ARCP panels will be a ‘virtual panel review’ conducted by a panel comprising a member from the Deanery, a Programme Director, a Trainer/Educational Supervisor and a Lay Person. They will take place a week after the statutory Educational Reviews in May and late November and identify those Registrars who need to be referred for a face to face panel review at the Deanery.

20/9/08 

Pennine Trainer Appraisal - Jan 28th 2009

Annual Trainer appraisal by the Training Scheme is a requirement of the Yorkshire Deanery. In Pennine we have adopted a system of peer appraisal. Read more about this formative and supportive approach in our new web page Trainer Appraisal (click). 

20/9/08

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

Finishing in February 2009? - Don't book your holidays in the first two weeks of December!

The Yorkshire Deanery is planning to run ARCP panels for ST3s (finishing in Feb 2009) during the first two weeks of December 2008. So please keep your diaries free, just in case you are called to panel.

19/9/08

Benign and malignant skin tumours

Have a look at an excellent PowerPoint presentation put together by one of our Registrars which has loads of great pictures and useful information. Please click here for the presentation.

8/9/08

Two useful websites from NZ have been recommended by our Registrars

www.dermnet.org.nz which has quizzes, learning modules, a wealth of patient information leaflets and a loads of photos of dermatological conditions.

The ECG Library - a website with lots of examples of abnormal ECGs.

Why not have a look at our useful links page?

23/8/08

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

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

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

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

Making IT and Gadgets work for you

Read AJs guide to gadgets which can help you master the time management and organisational skills which are essential for modern General Practice. You can find it in the Being a GP  section of the website or just click here.

12/7/08

Meet our Web Page Guardians

Dead links, out of date downloads and missing important resources are the downfall of many web sites. Pennine avoids this as our Registrars have elected to become Web Page Guardians (click), each choosing two or more different web pages with the remit to keep them up to date.

Every six months they swap pages bringing new enthusiasm and resources to the site.

8/7/08

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

ARCP Panel Review - Reflections of a panel member

I've just finished sitting on a series of ARCP panel reviews of ST1 to ST2 transitions. In addition to the obvious question 'Have they done the minimum number of assessments?' some of the important recurring questions by panel members were:

• Have they logged enough entries (5 - 10 pages on average for a ST1-ST2 transition this year)?
• Are they of significant breadth (multiple entries in professional conversations, tutorials, clinical encounters etc)?
• Have they been mapped to the curriculum (on average 2 or more per log entry)?
• Is there good curriculum coverage (depending on posts the majority of statements should have > 5 entries mapped to them)?
• Are they using their PDP?
• What did the ES report say (clear statements by the ES were very helpful)?
• What did the CSR reveal (especially if they were from a GP Trainer)?
• What do the MSFs say about the Registrar?
• What does the PSQ reveal about their practice (NB MSF was found to be a more important discriminator)?

The panel's expectations will increase year on year so please plan to exceed this standard in the coming year!

Matt 26/6/08

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