Ossett Surgery employs a number of clinicians and healthcare professionals who work across four Primary Care Networks (PCNs) in West Yorkshire. Our role includes everything from recruitment and induction to ongoing support in their roles. This helps to relieve pressure on GP practices and ensures patients receive care across the Primary Care Network footprint.
Sometimes referred to as ‘additional roles’ or ‘ARRS’, these highly skilled professionals are embedded within GP practices and local communities. They work alongside general practice staff, including GPs, practice nurses, healthcare assistants, and phlebotomists.
ARRS (Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme) is a UK programme designed to expand the primary care workforce by introducing additional roles into general practice. This enhances the quality of patient care while supporting GPs in managing their demanding caseloads.
Clinical Pharmacists
Clinical pharmacists work in primary care in a patient-facing role, clinically assessing and treating patients using their expert knowledge of medicines. They are either qualified prescribers or are working towards an independent prescribing qualification after completing an approved 18-month training pathway or equivalent.
They collaborate with the general practice team, taking responsibility for patients with chronic diseases and conducting structured medication reviews. Their role is particularly important in proactively managing complex polypharmacy, especially for elderly patients, individuals in care homes, and those with multiple comorbidities.
First Contact Practitioner Physiotherapists
First Contact Practitioner (FCP) Physiotherapists are highly qualified autonomous clinical practitioners who assess, diagnose, treat, and manage musculoskeletal conditions and undifferentiated presentations. Where appropriate, they can discharge patients without the need for a medical referral.
Patients can access FCP physiotherapists directly or through a referral from other healthcare staff. Their ability to establish a rapid and accurate diagnosis, along with a tailored management plan, helps streamline pathways of care and improve patient outcomes.
Mental Health Practitioners
Mental health practitioners support adults whose needs cannot be met by local talking therapies but who may not require ongoing care from secondary mental health services. These roles can be filled by a wide range of clinical and non-clinical professionals with mental health expertise, including community psychiatric nurses, clinical psychologists, mental health occupational therapists, and peer support workers.
Pharmacy Technicians
Pharmacy technicians complement the work of clinical pharmacists by applying their technical expertise in primary care settings. Their role involves utilising their pharmaceutical knowledge in tasks such as medicines reconciliation, audits, and prescription management support. Where appropriate, they also provide advice to patients and other members of the Primary Care Network (PCN) workforce.
Nurse Associate
urse Associates are trained healthcare professionals who work alongside registered nurses and other healthcare staff to provide high-quality care to patients. They play an essential role in supporting the nursing team and helping to deliver care across a variety of settings.
How can the Nurse Associate help you?
✔ Assist with routine health assessments – Help monitor your health and wellbeing, including taking vital signs and carrying out routine tests.
✔ Provide care for long-term conditions – Offer support in managing chronic conditions, under the supervision of a registered nurse.
✔ Offer health advice and education – Provide information on managing your health and wellbeing and offer guidance on lifestyle changes.
✔ Support with wound care and treatments – Assist with dressing changes, medication administration, and minor treatments.
Nurse Associates are an integral part of our healthcare team, helping us provide consistent, high-quality care. If you have any questions or need assistance, please speak to one of our team members.
Occupational Therapist
Our Occupational Therapists are healthcare professionals who help you maintain or improve your ability to perform everyday tasks. They work with individuals of all ages, supporting them in overcoming barriers caused by illness, injury, or disability.
How can an Occupational Therapist help you?
✔ Improve daily living skills – Help you regain or maintain independence in activities such as dressing, cooking, and bathing.
✔ Support with rehabilitation – Assist in recovery after surgery, injury, or illness by providing strategies and tools to regain mobility and function.
✔ Provide adaptations – Recommend equipment or modifications to your home or workplace to help you carry out tasks more easily and safely.
✔ Manage mental health and wellbeing – Offer support with managing stress, anxiety, and mental health conditions, improving overall quality of life.
✔ Offer advice on workplace or school adjustments – Help individuals adapt to their work or study environment to ensure comfort and productivity.
Our Occupational Therapists are committed to helping you live a more fulfilling and independent life. If you think this service could benefit you, please speak to a member of our team.
Care Co-Ordinators
Care Coordinators work as part of our healthcare team to support patients in managing their health and care needs. They help coordinate services, ensuring you receive the right support at the right time.
They can:
✔ Help you navigate the healthcare system, including arranging appointments and referrals.
✔ Work with GPs, nurses, pharmacists, and other professionals to ensure your care is well-organised.
✔ Provide extra support for those with long-term conditions, multiple health concerns, or frailty.
✔ Connect you with local services and community support to improve your wellbeing.
Care Coordinators play a key role in making healthcare more personalised and accessible. If you think you could benefit from their support, please speak to your GP practice.
Social Prescribers
Social Prescribers help patients improve their health and wellbeing by connecting them with non-medical support within the community. They focus on what matters to you, offering guidance and access to services that can improve your overall quality of life.
They can:
✔ Support you with issues such as loneliness, stress, housing, finances, or lifestyle changes.
✔ Connect you with local groups, activities, and services that promote physical and mental wellbeing.
✔ Work alongside GPs and healthcare teams to provide personalised, practical support.
✔ Help you take control of your health by addressing social and emotional needs.
Social prescribing is all about helping you live well beyond medical care. If you think this service could benefit you, please speak to your GP practice.
Health and Wellbeing Coaches
Our Health and Wellbeing Coaches are here to support you in making positive lifestyle changes that improve your physical and mental health. They work with you to set achievable goals, offering guidance, motivation, and practical advice tailored to your personal needs.
✔ Set and achieve health goals – Whether it’s improving fitness, eating healthier, or managing stress, your coach will help you create a plan and stay on track.
✔ Build healthier habits – Learn how to make lasting changes that benefit both your physical and mental wellbeing.
✔ Provide support and motivation – Your coach will be there to support you through challenges and celebrate your progress.
✔ Tailor advice to your lifestyle – Get personalised tips that fit your routine and needs.
Health and Wellbeing Coaches empower you to take control of your health and lead a more balanced life. If you’d like to find out more or get started, please speak to a member of our team.