Shows
Wessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 02 May 2025An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2025-05-0631 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 16 April 2025An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2025-04-1740 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 04 April 2025An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2025-04-0817 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 21 March 2025An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2025-03-2118 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 05 March 2025An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2025-03-0643 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 19 February 2025An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2025-02-2049 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 06 February 2025An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2025-02-0725 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsPSA testing for Prostate CancerIn this podcast Dr Camilla Janssen talks with Dr Jenny Rattray, GP Retainer and GP advisor at Wessex Cancer Alliance. She has an interest in urological cancers and has just completed the Prostate Cancer UK Primary Care Programme.
They discuss:
The new consensus statement on PSA testing for prostate cancer.
The background of prostate cancer and the diagnostic challenges, i.e. trying to catch it early without over diagnosing.
Looking at which patients are at high risk.
Thinking about when it's appropriate to test men without symptoms and how to counsel them before giving them a...2025-02-0621 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 22nd January 2025An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2025-01-2348 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsWinter Readiness - Infection Prevention and ControlIn this podcast Zoe Tobin, Nurse Advisor at Wessex LMCs is kindly joined by Connie Timmins and Jenny Bennett- Britton, IPC Leads for BSW ICB to discuss all things Infection Prevention and Control (IP&C) in terms of the challenges we face this winter in primary care and tips on how to manage any potential concerns or infections.
This podcast covers:
Current circulating infections (such as influenza, Covid and RSV) that we are managing in primary care
Potential community outbreaks and care homes
Practical solutions for practices, including PPE, IP&C measures, patient placement etc
Management...2025-01-2216 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 8th January 2025An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2025-01-0917 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsTop Tips on dealing with haematology in General PracticeWessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Andy Purbrick, is joined by Dr Jason Mainwaring, Consultant Haematologist to discuss top tips on dealing with haematology in General Practice.
As referenced in this discussion, please see Jason’s document covering common advice and guidance for GPs here: HAEMATOLOGY GP ADVICE AND GUIDANCE 2024.pdf
2025-01-0838 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe Financial Challenges and Realities of Becoming a GP PartnerWessex LMCs presents a podcast on the financial challenges and realities of becoming a GP Partner. Dr Will Howard, a GP Partner for 22 years and a Medical Director at Wessex LMCs chats with Peter Farrier, a Director at Morris Crocker Accountants, a Medical Specialist Accountant. The pair talk through starting out as a Partner, tax planning, mid-career opportunities and retirement planning, amongst other areas. We hope you find the information they share useful.
2024-12-3127 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsHepatitis C – a good news storyProfessor Ryan Buchanan (Wessex Clinical Hepatitis C Lead) and Dr Nicholas Ballantyne (Wessex Clinical Hepatitis C GP Champion) talk to Dr Laura Edwards (Joint CEO Wessex LMCs) about the complete transformation in treatment approach and outcomes for Hepatitis C and talk about the possibility of elimination of this disease. Listen to this good news story and share the positive message.
Look at HepCulater: https://www.hepculater.com/ for more resources and for self referral for free NHS testing and follow up for your patients.
2024-12-1929 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsSafe Working - it's transformationalNeed to re-charge, refresh and re-imagine? Do listen to Dr Steph Carter and Dr Claire Hodgekiss discuss improving access for patients and taking back control. Steph's practice created a better workplace culture as the team worked together to improve capacity and care. Claire's practice took back control of the daily contacts to improve care. Dr Laura Edwards encourages you to listen as the New Year approaches.
2024-12-1937 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 18th December 2024An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2024-12-1914 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 4th December 2024An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2024-12-0516 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsAwareness and Support around Drink SpikingDr Laura Edwards, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs, speaks with Helena Conibear, Founder and CEO of the Talk About Trust (formally the Alcohol Education Trust). The Talk About Trust is a charity which works to keep young people safe around alcohol ,vaping, cannabis and other substances.
They discuss the ongoing issue of drink spiking including:
The latest stats on how many people are affected
Common substances used for spiking
The effects of drink spiking
How to report drink spiking & the support available
https://life-stuff.org/spiking-what-to-do/ - Information for victims of spiking and what people...2024-12-0433 minWessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs PM Update - 20th November 2024An opportunity for PMs to hear the latest guidance for practices from the team at Wessex LMCs.
Please see www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/practice-manager-updates/ for slides and resources referred to in this recording
2024-11-211h 01
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe Financial Burden on GP PracticesWessex LMCs Joint CEO Dr Laura Edwards talks to BBC Radio Solent about the significant threat to GP Practices with the rise in National Insurance contributions.
Laura also highlights the existing financial pressures General Practice is already facing.
You can read the accompanying online article featuring Wessex LMCs Joint CEO Dr Andy Purbrick 'Surgeries on 'precipice' ahead of tax hike, says GP' here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cdrdem1mr16o
(Recorded 20th November 2024)
2024-11-2005 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsA Huge Potential Threat to General PracticeWessex LMCs Joint CEO Dr Andy Purbrick talks to BBC Radio Solent (Dorset) about the huge potential threat the increase in National Insurance contributions will have to General Practice.
Andy also highlights the other pressures facing General Practice including the workload crisis.
You can read the accompanying online article 'Surgeries on 'precipice' ahead of tax hike, says GP' here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cdrdem1mr16o
(Recorded 20th November 2024)
2024-11-2007 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsNon-Specific Symptom Pathways ExplainedIn this podcast, Dr Andy Purbrick, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs talks with:
Dr Richard Hiskins, GP working in SWAG Cancer Alliance
Dr Richard Roope, Wessex Rapid Investigation Service GP
Kelly Spiller, head of faster diagnostics and Wessex Cancer Alliance
They discuss:
What is a Cancer Alliance?
The evolution of NSS pathways
The referral process: who can refer, how, and what pre-investigations are carried out?
The patient journey and how this differs between Wessex and SWAG.
The benefits of the NSS Pathways
The outcomes from the service so far (Cancer detection rates, incidental findings, and onward...2024-11-1820 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsNHS Continuing Healthcare ExplainedDr Andy Purbrick, Joint CEO at Wessex LMCs talks with the all age continuing care team at NHS Dorset to dispel some of the myths behind continuing health care, how the referrals process works and why it’s so important for patients.
2024-11-1430 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs Newsletter Summary - 8th November 2024Listen to a summary of Wessex LMCs newsletter released 8th November 2024.
Read the newsletter in full on the Wessex LMCs website: https://www.wessexlmcs.com/lmc-team-emails-newsletters/
2024-11-0817 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsA Patient’s Point of View - What is happening to General Practice?Christopher Saunders (Patient) & Sarah Peters (Healthwatch) ask Dr Andy Purbrick (GP & Joint CEO, Wessex LMCs) the crucial questions that are at the front of so many people’s minds. Why can’t I ever see my own doctor? Why do I have to tell the receptionist what is wrong? Why are the surgery waiting rooms so empty? Listen in to a fascinating, honest and illuminating discussion.
2024-11-0722 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs Newsletter Summary - 17th October 2024Listen to a summary of Wessex LMCs newsletter released 17th October 2024.
Read the newsletter in full on the Wessex LMCs website: https://www.wessexlmcs.com/lmc-team-emails-newsletters/
2024-10-1818 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe Benefits of Time Spent with Like-Minded ManagersLouise Greenwood (Director of Education and Training, Wessex LMCs) talks to Matt Perkins and Jayne Tabor, two of Wessex LMCs’ Practice Manager Supporters about the benefits of spending time with like-minded managers. It can be a huge benefit to sit down and share the challenges of the job, share some wisdom and ask for advice from peers, whether this is at a formal Practice Manage meeting or an informal Space to Thrive group. This time can be the most valuable of your week – and it can be fun and inspiring too! What have you got to lose?
2024-10-1519 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsWomen’s Health - challenges and practical solutions to delivering menopause care in general practiceIn this podcast, Zoe Tobin (Nurse Advisor at Wessex LMCs) is kindly joined by Dr Camilla Janssen (Hampshire GP and Vice Chair & representative for the HIOW LMC), who has an interest in women’s health and has explored innovative ways of delivery in General Practice.
Topics covered include:
What are the current challenges in the delivery of women’s health in general practice for both the patient and the clinician?
What practical solutions are there to overcome these challenges?
Camilla shares examples of initiatives implemented at practice / PCN level, including:
Patient group education - examples of initi...2024-10-0319 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsOsteoporosis for GPsListen to Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Andy Purbrick talking to Dr Jonathan Marks, Consultant Rheumatologist at UHD Hospital, as they discuss the latest guidelines around osteoporosis management and how GPs can put them into practice.
Please find links mentioned in the podcast:
Summary of main recommendations | NOGG
Fracture Risk Assessment Tool
Royal Osteoporosis Society - Better Bone Health for Everybody (theros.org.uk)
2024-09-2442 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsDeath Certification Reforms and Statutory Medical Examiner SystemOur Joint CEOs Dr Andy Purbrick and Dr Laura Edwards together discuss the impending reforms to Death Regulations that come into place next week. They will run through the need to knows and our website guidance and decision-making flowchart to help you navigate the process and the changes. See all the guidance and the flow chart here: Death Certification - Wessex LMCs
2024-09-0618 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsVisa Sponsorship in General PracticeDoes your practice have a visa sponsorship licence already?
Do you know what it is or why you might want one?
This podcast will persuade you to push this up your practice list of priorities as something to have in place! Listen now to find out why. Our Joint CEO and GP Dr Laura Edwards talks with a panel around visa sponsorship and how it impacts international graduates particularly around the time of qualification and what actions practices may want to take to help with their recruitment.
Helpful Resources:
UK Visa Sp...2024-08-0238 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsDifferent ways of working – a General Practice exampleIn this episode Dr Edd Rendell speaks with Business Manager Jo Farnworth and GP Partner Dr John Robertson from Prince of Wales Surgery, Dorchester. They have found a new way of working which includes creating additional administration time and offering more prebookable appointments. This has led to a happier practice for staff and patients and them no longer requiring a duty doctor. We talk through how this happened and what changes they have seen over the past 11 months. They share tips for practices who wish to explore a similar model.
2024-07-2417 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsGPAS: Stating the Case for General Practice - 2 years onIn this podcast we revisit the General Practice Alert State (GPAS) tool 2 years after its initial launch.
This powerful tool helps build a picture across the Wessex area. The data practices provide empowers the LMC to argue the case for general practice and illustrate the pressures practice teams are under.
Find out more here: https://www.wessexlmcs.com/guidance/gpas-general-practice-alert-state/
2024-07-1715 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsAn insight into GPDFThis Wessex LMCs podcast is about an organisation called the GPDF – or General Practitioners Defence Fund. In this podcast Dr Will Howard (Medical Director of Wessex LMCs) is joined by Dr Chris Castle, a GP Partner in Southeast Hants, Chair of Wessex LMCs Board and a Board member of GPDF. Chris and Will discuss what GPDF is, what it does and how it is funded, as well as how you might be able to access it if you need it. GPDF also fund the national conferences which is critical in giving LMCs a voice in directing GPC action and ne...2024-07-1016 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsDiscussion on Collective ActionIn this podcast Dr Laura Edwards and Dr Edd Rendell explore what the BMA have shared around proposed collective action and touch on the recent GP Connect issue.
2024-07-0537 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsOur ValuesEdd Rendell, talks to Dr Simon Wright, GP and Chair of the Dorset LMC, and Lisa Harding, about ‘Our Values’. They discuss what the Values mean, why they are so important and how they apply to the work of the LMC. See more on our website here.
2024-06-1721 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsReflecting on the Challenges Facing Dispensing PracticesIn this podcast Ed Kennedy who is a Managing Partner at the Wickham Surgery in Hampshire, reflects on his own personal experience of the challenges dispensing practices are currently facing and why these are occurring. Ed also introduces his role with the Institute of General Practice Management (IGPM) and the support that is available for Dispensing Managers through this.
With our Conference for PMs and GPs fasting approaching on the 25th June, we thought it would be useful to provider a taster for one of our breakout sessions for dispensing practices, so please do register for the c...2024-05-3011 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsPertussis (Whooping Cough) in Primary CarePertussis – the latest infectious disease to make the headlines, but also to cause real risk to the most vulnerable patients in our population. Listen to Dr Sanjay Patel, Consultant in Infections disease at Southampton Hospital talk Dr Will Howard, a Wessex LMCs Medical Director, about pertussis, what’s going on, how to recognise and treat it, and how we might minimise its future impact through prevention by immunisation.
2024-05-2118 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe General Practice Nurse RoleIn this podcast Zoe Tobin, Nurse Advisor at Wessex LMCs is joined by Angie Hack, Assistant Director of Nursing Programmes at the Queen's Nursing Institute, and Chair of the Association of Academic General Practice Nurse Educators. They discuss the ever-developing role of the General Practice Nurse in primary care. This podcast is aimed at GPNs, anyone interested in becoming a GPN and other members of the practice team who would like a better understanding of the role, such as Practice Managers,
This podcast covers:
The skills and qualifications required to undertake the role
The different roles...2024-05-0836 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsRespiratory Care & Paediatric AsthmaIn this podcast our Nurse Advisor Zoe Tobin is joined by Emma Ray (Respiratory Nurse Specialist in General Practice & Clinical Practice Educator: Children and young people with Asthma HIOW) to discuss all things respiratory. They talk through effective paediatric asthma care in primary care, staff training and development, and resources and support for the practice team in the delivery of respiratory services.
Useful links-
Primary Care Respiratory Society
Association of Respiratory Nurses
National Paediatric Respiratory and Allergy Nurses Group- NPRANG
Find a local peer support network | Primary Care Respiratory S...2024-04-1925 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsHealth Inequalities - The Surprising FactorIn this podcast Dr Laura Edwards discusses with Dr Katie Warburton and Dr Jo Hunter their work around health inequalities, and the surprising factor and difference that we can make with our approach as professionals in our daily work. Sometimes solving health inequalities can feel totally out of our reach, but Katie and Jo explain that by the way we approach our consultations, we can make a difference.
2024-04-0228 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsTaking Late Retirement from the NHS 1995 Pension SectionIn this podcast, Jan Harley-Doyle from Lifestyle Options explains the importance of practices being aware of the ramifications of staff taking late retirement from the 1995 section of the NHS pension scheme.
Please read the handout and share it with your colleagues to ensure that moving forward, all staff take their 1995 pension at a time that is most financially beneficial to them, taking into account their personal circumstances all the factors mentioned in the podcast.
Please note, this handout only applies to any membership accrued in the 1995 Section. It DOES NOT apply to any membership accrued...2024-03-2608 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe role of the HCA in General PracticeIn this podcast our Nurse Advisor Zoe Tobin is joined by Julia O Mara and Julia Judd, trainers from J2S training, who provide valuable comprehensive training for HCAs in general practice for Wessex LMCs, to discuss the role of the HCA in general practice and will cover-
Overview of the HCA role and role development
Clinical supervision / Accountability and Delegation
Extended roles, such as Long-term conditions management
Tips for CPD and what to look for when employing a HCA
Key resources and support for HCAs.
This podcast would be beneficial for any current HCAs, or anyone...2024-03-2138 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsGP Contract 2024-25 (Everything you need to know)In this podcast our joint CEOs Dr Laura Edwards and Dr Andy Purbrick discuss the 2024-25 GP contract that has just been imposed on the profession. Listen as they go through everything you need to know for this year.
Useful Links:
Armed Forces Covenant: /www.england.nhs.uk/contact-us/privacy-notice/how-we-use-your-information/our-services/armed-forces-and-families-health-care/d forces and families health care
Interested in being a veteran friendly practice: https://elearning.rcgp.org.uk/mod/book/view.php?id=12533&chapterid=285&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw-r-vBhC-ARIsAGgUO2AtOfLNp5T9f1dtK9PLNg-4nWYnmXEn48owF91QIyK7T3-eRT5bBIcaAnsvEALw_w...2024-03-1332 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsPharmacy First ServiceLaura Edwards and Sarah Cotton discuss Pharmacy First a new initiative that has been rolled out across the country. They discuss how the new service is going including what conditions are covered, the funding and some of the myths surrounding it. There are also some top tips of how to get the most from this service for your patients and what future developments there might be.
Find out more here: https://cpe.org.uk/national-pharmacy-services/advanced-services/pharmacy-first-service/
2024-03-0533 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsShared Care - A guide from Wessex LMCsShared care is a term used within the NHS to describe the situation where a specialist doctor wishes to pass some of the patient’s care, such as prescription of medication, over to their general practitioner (GP). This is something that can be requested but the guidance for all medications is that this may only be done if the GP agrees. The GP will need to consider a number of factors to decide if this is safe.
Shared care is an important aspect of care that we are hearing from practices is causing increased tension and pressure at...2024-02-0125 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsGeneral Practice Improvement ProgrammeMichelle Lombardi, Director of Primary Care, talks with Amelia Davis, Operational Service Lead at Malmesbury Primary Care Centre.
They discuss how the General Practice Improvement Programme can help practices in development of the modern General Practice concept. Amelia explains what it has been like to undertake the programme in her practice and shares her learning with us.
For more information see: https://www.england.nhs.uk/gp/national-general-practice-improvement-programme/
2023-11-2822 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsGP Contract Hand Back - The Implications, Liabilities & Practical ConsiderationsDr Andy Purbrick (Joint CEO, Wessex LMCs) discusses the thorny issue of why a GP Partnership may consider handing back its contract and closing the practice, the implications, liabilities and practical considerations involved, and the potential alternatives to this Armageddon situation. Andy is joined by solicitors Robert McCartney (Hempsons) & Rachel Crean (VWV), Sally Sidaway ( Morris Crocker Accountants) and Adam Thompson (surveyor, Primary Care Surveyors).
2023-11-2234 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsA Personal Experience of Unique End of Life WishesThis podcast is exceptional in many ways. It is a deeply personal story of a family carrying out their mothers rather unique end of life wishes. We hear from Dr Julia Hempenstall about her professional and personal experience.
2023-10-2325 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsCall to GP Practices to get Onboard Wessex Healthier TogetherThe Wessex Healthier Together website provides advice for parents, young people and pregnant women, and clinical resources to support healthcare professionals – which means that children are likely to receive consistently high-quality care, irrespective of which healthcare professional they see.
Sanjay Patel, Paediatrics Infectious Diseases Consultant at Southampton Children's hospital who leads the Healthier Together programme, joins us to discuss the resources available in further detail to help change parental help seeking behaviour.
The Healthier Together app aims to change the health-seeking behaviour of parents by providing them with the tools to evaluate the severity of the...2023-10-0621 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsSafe Working in General Practice - Inspiration for ChangeDr Steph Carter and Dr Claire Hodgekiss, both GP Partners in Hampshire discuss the projects they have been involved in to improve their practice service for both patients and staff.
Steph’s practice worked on improved access for patients. By creating a better workplace culture, the team worked together to achieve improved capacity and safe general practice care.
Claire describes how her practice took back control of the number of daily contacts to improve patient care, with a focus on same day access.
We encourage anyone listening to this podcast to think about th...2023-09-2036 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsAutism Awareness in Primary CareDr Laura Edwards talks with Dr Gemma Langman, Clinical Champion for Learning Disability and Autism for the Hampshire and IOW ICB.
Gemma has a passion for neurodiversity and explains more about the modalities of autism. She also provides tips for clinicians to improve consultations and best support patients with autism.
The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism
2023-08-3031 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsLearning Disabilities Awareness in Primary Care----more----Dr Laura Edwards talks with Dr Gemma Langman, Clinical Champion for Learning Disability and Autism for the Hampshire & IOW ICB.
This discussion aims to bring awareness and increase understanding and confidence in dealing with patients with learning disabilities.
Wessex LMCs: Learning Disabilities: The Annual Health Check
2023-08-2325 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsPaediatric Egg Allergy in Primary CareWessex LMCs Medical Director Dr Edd Rendell, and Nurse Advisor Zoe Tobin, talk to Cherry Alvian, Paediatric Allergy GRID registrar at University Hospital Southampton about Egg allergy in children, including –
New guidance around the management of mild cases of paediatric egg allergy in primary care
Guidance and considerations around vaccinating children with a confirmed egg allergy
Signposting to relevant sources of support and guidance for both health care professionals and parents of Egg allergic children.
Further resources mentioned in the podcast can be located here- Egg Allergy in Children – Primary Care Guidance (what0-18.nhs.uk)
2023-08-1415 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsPatient behaviour is evolving fast – where do you turn for help?Figures from consumer research group 2San show that 1 in 3 people in Southampton initially look for medical advice on socials instead of from a GP.
In this radio interview, Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Laura Edwards, talks to Global News about how this affects the NHS.
2023-08-0401 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsBeing an International Medical Graduate (IMG)Alex Morgan continues the discussion with Sharjeel Qureshi and they dig a little deeper into how it feels to be training as a GP in a different place and culture. Sharjeel shares experiences about racism, religion and culture and offers some techniques for IMGs to help them overcome challenges.
"Spend a Penny" booklet to share with International Graduate GP trainees.
2023-08-0424 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsHosting an International Medical Graduate (IMG) in your SurgeryDr Will Howard talks to Dr Sharjeel Qureshi & Dr Alex Morgan about hosting an International Medical Graduate (IMG) in your surgery as a training GP. Dr Alex Morgan (Team Communication Specialist, International Coach and Coach Supervisor) elaborates on why and how teams & individuals behave as they do, Dr Sharjeel Qureshi (GP Partner, Near to Peer Support Fellow NHSE, Dorset LMCs’ Committee Member) brings real & personal examples, and Dr Will Howard summarises with a list of hints and tips for practices.
"Spend a Penny" booklet to share with International Graduate GP trainees.
2023-08-0429 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsFIT Testing demystified, Overview of the 2WW ”Rapid Investigation Service” & ”Cancer of Unknown Primary” PathwaysGP Dr Camilla Janssen talks to Richard Roope about FIT tests, their use in screening as well as for the symptomatic population. Also covered are the new colorectal referral pathways including recent changes, such as the FIT -ive referral route. Discussions include appropriateness of requesting and interpreting FIT tests in different clinical situations, i.e. with rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, acute infection and when taking iron supplementation and the importance of safety netting.
Here is the link to the information on the Wessex Cancer Alliance website, including useful links that can be sent to patients...2023-07-3129 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsCoping with Imposter SyndromeImposter Syndrome is the experience that many high-achieving people have of feeling a fraud, of not deserving their success, a fear of being ‘found out’, of not being as competent as other people think they are. It is characterised by chronic self-doubt, feeling phoney, attributing success to luck or other external factors, feeling unable to live up to expectations, etc.
The best evidence is that it effects women more often than men and people from humble origins more than those from more privileged backgrounds.
In this podcast, Dr Edd Rendell, Medical Director at Wessex LMCs, speaks...2023-07-2121 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsCannabis and Young PeopleWessex LMCs Nurse Advisor Zoe Tobin talks to Karen Perryman, Regional Manager of the Talk About Trust (formally the Alcohol Education Trust) about cannabis and young people, included in this discussion-
Cannabis, what is out there?, what are the social norms around cannabis use, are there many young people using cannabis these days?
What are the effects of cannabis and how can you approach this with a young person?
What support is out there for a young person who is affect by cannabis use and where can we signpost?
Useful links mentioned in this podcast-
htt...2023-07-1112 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsAlcohol and Young people with Special Educational NeedsWessex LMCs Nurse Advisor Zoe Tobin talks to Karen Perryman, Regional Manager of the Talk About Trust (formally Alcohol Education Trust) for the South West/Midlands about alcohol and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN), included in this discussion -
How do you talk about alcohol the ‘drug’ to young people with SEN, including explaining Government guidance and the concept of ‘units’, and the effects of alcohol on their social. Physical and emotional wellbeing?
How do you ensure that a young person knows where to go for help if they have been affected by alcohol?
Useful links me...2023-06-3020 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsIntegrated Care Boards - Wessex LMCs reflections one year on...One year on since the establishment of Integrated Care Boards, Wessex LMCs Medical Directors Dr Will Howard & Dr Edd Rendell reflect on how the LMC has been interacting with ICB's. We are a constant who is changing in response to ICBs and negotiating on behalf of practices to try and make the most of what we have.
Wessex ICB websites:
NHS Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire ICB
NHS Dorset ICB
NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight ICB
2023-06-2709 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsGiving a bit back to veterans…and increasing staff morale and patient care at the same timeLouise Greenwood (Director of Education & Training at Wessex LMCs) talks to Andrew Pearce, Quality and Compliance Manager for Portsdown Group Practice. Andrew is a veteran himself and describes caring for veterans and their families whether they are staff or patients at the practice. Information about the Veteran Friendly Practice is here. If you would l like to find out more about anything in this podcast, please contact Andrew on Andrew.pearce11@nhs.net.
https://elearning.rcgp.org.uk/mod/book/view.php?id=12533&chapterid=285
2023-05-1615 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsWho are Healthwatch and how can they help practices?Louise Greenwood, Director of Education & Training, talks to Linda Webb (Communications Lead for Healthwatch Wiltshire) and Andy Mintram (member of the Local Leadership Board for Healthwatch Wiltshire) about the role of Healthwatch Wiltshire and how Healthwatch can work with practices to improve patient care.
Healthwatch Wiltshire is part of a network of over 150 local Healthwatch across the country.
Find out more at https://www.healthwatchwiltshire.co.uk/
2023-05-1015 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsLyme Disease AwarenessIn this podcast we explore Lyme disease, its prevalence and presentations. Lyme disease symptoms may be non-specific and difficult to recognise. Raising awareness amongst primary care clinicians will increase the likelihood of patients receiving early and effective treatment.
Dr Camilla Janssen talks to infectious disease and microbiology consultant, Matthew Dryden, from the Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory (RIPL), Porton Down.
Matthew explains:
Lyme presentation and manifestation - thinking about the three stages of Lyme disease
early localized phase
early disseminated phase (Neuro dissemination / radiculopathy)
late stage Lyme disease.
what tests and treatment may be app...2023-05-0422 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsGPAS - Stating the case for General PracticeWessex LMCs are now a year into running the General Practice Alert State (GPAS) scheme and we thank all our practices who contribute on an ongoing basis. Your anonymous submissions are used to state the case for General Practice at system level.
In this podcast, Dr Will Howard, Medical Director at Wessex LMCs talks with Helene Clark, Primary Care Information Officer and Edd Rendell, Medical Director about the benefits of the scheme and the impact it’s having. If you’re not involved in GPAS currently, the team also talk about how you can get involved.
Re...2023-04-2714 minWessex LMCs PodcastsAndy Freeman - the role of Trade UnionsAndy Freeman talks at the PM Update webinar on the role of Trade Unions in general practice, and how Practice Managers can work with unions, union reps and staff who belong to unions. This is a section from the PM Update webinar run on 31st March 2023.
Please see https://www.wessexlmcs.com/practicemanagerupdates for any accompanying resources referred to in this recording.
2023-04-0342 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsFeeling Overwhelmed & Under Pressure from Patient Demand?Do you feel overwhelmed with patient demand and are you constantly feeling the pressure? Do listen to Dr Rebecca Lye (GP) and Mrs Alex Kimber (Managing Partner) from The Grove Medical Centre who have changed the way they work in a manageable way – and feel much more in control and feel less pressure as a result. They discuss what they did and why with Louise Greenwood, Wessex LMC’s Director of Education, Training & Development.
2023-03-2923 min
Wessex LMCs Podcasts2.6 Million Patients vs 1400 GPsDr Laura Edwards, Joint CEO of Wessex LMCs was recently interviewed by Global News to highlight the pressures in general practice. Take a listen to the interview which was featured on Heart Hampshire Radio on 10th March 23.
Wessex LMCs Key Patient & Media Messages
2023-03-1601 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsAnxiety and depression: why doctors are prescribing gardening rather than drugsMany GPs are now prescribing growing and other green activities, and evidence suggests that this can be as effective at treating anxiety and depression as medication, and sometimes more so. https://theconversation.com/anxiety-and-depression-why-doctors-are-prescribing-gardening-rather-than-drugs-121841
Dr Anne Hayden founder of the Grown your own Rainbow Gardens initiative explains how the project helps address physical and mental wellbeing and food insecurity.
The initiative is about empowering people to take control of their lives by coming together as a supportive community, better able to cope with life’s challenges.
Lawrence Camilleri, founder of Forever More Food wor...2023-03-1021 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe pressure never stops, BBC Radio Solent Interview with Dr Andy PurbrickOn Tuesday 7th March, Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Andy Purbrick, spoke on BBC Radio Solent’s breakfast show (broadcast to Dorset). Following a segment on the day in the life of a GP, featuring Dr Lisa Nayler from the Parkstone Tower Practice in Poole, Andy explains why the workload crisis is not just a result of the pandemic.
2023-03-0708 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe pressure never stops, BBC Radio Solent Interview with Dr Laura EdwardsOn Tuesday 7th March, Wessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Laura Edwards, spoke on BBC Radio Solent’s breakfast show (broadcast to Hampshire & IOW). Following a segment on the day in the life of a GP, featuring Dr Lisa Nayler from the Parkstone Tower Practice in Poole, Laura discusses why there aren’t enough GPs to meet an increasing medically complex population.
2023-03-0720 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsTalking TransgenderDr Cora Sargent, Educational Psychologist and a Senior Training Fellow at the University of Southampton, joins us to discuss the work she carries out as part of the gender research group.
Cora draws on her own experiences of being transgender to explain her journey with trans services and her GP. She also highlights the societal barriers that non-binary and transgender people face.
Transgender guidance is available on the LMC website here: Care of Transgender and Non-Binary Patients in Primary Care
2023-02-1529 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsHave you heard of the Cameron Fund?Dr Will Howard, Medical Director at Wessex LMCS, talks with Vernon Needham, trustee of the Cameron Fund.
Vernon explains everything you need to know about the Cameron Fund including:
Who the charity can benefit and examples of how
How the charity is funded
The application process
Timescales for the application process
The Cameron Funds Top 10 tips
Find out more at:
https://www.cameronfund.org.uk/
https://www.wessexlmcs.com/thecameronfund
2023-01-1817 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsGroup A Streptococcus Infections – where are we now?Dr Sanjay Patel, paediatric infectious diseases & immunology Consultant at Southampton Children’s’ Hospital , joins Dr Will Howard, Medical Director at Wessex LMCs to give us an update on the current situation with the Group A Strep outbreak.
We encourage you to continue to share the Healthier Together website as a reliable source of information for your patients.
2023-01-1219 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsSupply vs Demand in General PracticeFollowing Dr Laura Edwards Meridian interview, she talks with Dr Edd Rendell about the huge mismatch in patient demand vs staffing levels in General Practice.
2022-12-2321 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsSafe Working in General PracticeDr Richard Van Mellaerts, London based GP and British Medical Association Deputy Chair of the GP Committee (England) speaks to Dr Edd Rendell, Medical Director of Wessex LMCs about the BMA guidance on Safe Working in General Practice.
They discuss why a practice might implement some of the suggestions within this document and practical advice on how this could be achieved.
Safe working in general practice (bma.org.uk)
2022-12-0920 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsPatient Safety - A Focus on Children & TeenagersDr Chrissy Boardman, CAMHS Doctor, talks to Dr Sarah Kay- GP Clinical Lead for Patient Safety at NHS Dorset about prevention of child and teenager suicides. They discuss how to risk stratify presentations of self-harm, including the importance of establishing history of autism, eating disorder, or gender dysphoria or recent bereavement that may increase your index of concern. They discuss resources to signpost patients and parents to as a practical way of supporting families.
2022-11-3022 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsNHS Property Services - Settlement ConsiderationsIn light of NHS Property Services sending settlement letters to practices again, we have recorded this podcast with Adam Thompson from Primary Care Surveyors where we talk through the areas that need to be considered when looking to agree a settlement.
NHS Property Services Website
2022-11-2520 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsIf the health sector were a country, it would be the fifth-largest emitter on the planet...Angela Hayes, Clinical Nurse Specialist at The Christie Foundation Trust in Manchester, talks to Dr Laura Edwards about the sustainability projects she is involved in, and how we can think about our carbon footprint more in healthcare.
Green Team Competition
‘The gloves are off’ campaign
2022-10-1317 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsNational Standards of Healthcare CleanlinessRecorded during our PM update on 31st August, Connie Timmins, Lead Nurse for Infection Prevention and Control at NHS BSW ICB talks to us about the National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness 2021.
National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness Presentation Slides
2022-09-0134 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe Importance of Patient SafetyLouise Greenwood is joined by:
Sarah Kay, GP Clinical Lead for Patient Safety at NHS Dorset
Jaydee Swarbrick, Patient Safety Specialist at NHS Dorset
to discuss the importance of patient safety at this time of significant pressure across the NHS. Patient safety is about maximising the things that go right and minimising the things that go wrong. It is integral to the NHS’ definition of quality in healthcare, alongside effectiveness and patient experience.
Useful Reading:
NHS England » The NHS Patient Safety Strategy
Wessex LMCs: Significant Event Analysis (SEA) - Significant Events, Seri...2022-07-2927 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsEven sceptical GPs can benefit from coaching!Louise Greenwood (Director of Education) talks to Dr Andy Purbrick (CEO and GP) and David Birch. Andy was coached by David and they discuss how and why Andy decided that coaching was a good idea for him and how he benefitted from it.
David Birch is an independent executive coach and supervisor accredited by Ashridge business school.
2022-06-2217 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsGeneral Practice Alert State - Stating The Case for General PracticeColleagues at Devon LMC have developed and operationalised a simple system which collects a small amount of anonymised data from their practices so that they are able to indicate to the broader system the strain General Practice is under. This presents data in a simple to understand format which can compete with OPEL data collected on various system dash boards. In fact, their system converts the General Practice Alert State (GPAS) data into an OPEL assessment with associated triggers for a system response to support.
Wessex LMCs have reviewed the GPAS system and feel it to be...2022-04-2512 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe Green Agenda and Estates in Primary CareDr Laura Edwards speaks with Adam Thompson, Director of Primary Care Surveyors and Mark Robinson, architect, and Director at Simpson Hilder Associates. They discuss:
The role buildings play in the green agenda
What is bream and why is it so important
What you can do to improve your premises
How to start the process of a new premises and timescales
2022-04-0419 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsTwo Practice Managers share their Experiences of Practice MergersWessex LMCs PM Supporters, Matt Perkins and Sue Scott discuss their experiences of practice mergers. From initial considerations to the merger process itself, Matt and Sue share their advice and top tips.
The LMC is often asked to facilitate merger meetings and explain the process involved and has, as a consequence, produced a merger pack which is full of information and advice around this subject. Download a copy here
2022-03-2326 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsReducing your practice’s carbon footprint: managing clinical wasteThe management of clinical waste is an essential part of ensuring that healthcare activities do not pose a risk of infection, as well as reducing your practice's carbon footprint. Dr Katharine Edmonds joins us with some tips and advice to help reinforce waste management behaviour in practice. Have you considered getting your PPG involved? Katharine explains all...
Find out more on the Greener Practice website: https://www.greenerpractice.co.uk/gifh-audit-1
2022-02-2413 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsWessex LMCs - Our Roles and ResponsibilitiesAre you familiar with the roles and responsibilities of Wessex LMCs? Dr Gareth Bryant, Acting Chief Executive, gives us an overview including:
What is a LMC
What is Wessex LMCs
LMC structure
What is our Constitution and what is included
Who attends LMC meetings
What role do the Committees play
Who are PM members
What role do individual members play and what is expected on them
To watch the webinar version and access the accompanying slides please click here
2022-02-1726 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsCommunity Pharmacist Consultation Service (CPCS) - Everything you need to knowThe NHS Community Pharmacist Consultation Service launched in October 2019 as an advanced service. Since 1st November 2020, general practices have been able to refer patients for a minor illness consultation via CPCS, once a local referral pathway has been agreed.
Carolyn Beale, Support & Implementation Manager from Community Pharmacy Swindon and Wiltshire joins Dr Laura Edwards, Medical Director at Wessex LMCs. Carolyn explains more about how the service works and the benefits for GPs.
For further info see https://psnc.org.uk/services-commissioning/advanced-services/community-pharmacist-consultation-service/
2022-02-1619 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsNacoa - Info, advice & support for those affected by a parent’s drinking.Dr Gareth Bryant, talks with Euan Graham, a volunteer for the charity Nacoa (National Association for Children of Alcoholics). Euan talks to us about the work Nacoa does and resources available to help clinicians.
The 13th - 19th February 2022 marks #COAWeek2022. The campaign aims to raise awareness for the millions of children in the UK affected by their parent’s drinking. You can download the poster images for sharing here.
Find out more at https://nacoa.org.uk/
Information for parents
To obtain display posters or referral cards from Nacoa, please em...2022-02-1417 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsHave you heard of the IGPM?The Institute of General Practice Management (IGPM) was formed in December 2020 with the aim of being recognised as the professional body that represents all managers working within general practice in the United Kingdom.
Louise Greenwood chats to the 3 IGPM reps for Wessex about what the IGPM is and how it can help Practice Managers
Find out more information here
2022-02-0422 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsOver Diagnosis - A focus on green clinical careDr Katharine Edmonds joins us for the next in a series of green podcasts. Tackling over diagnosis is taking on a new urgency in the context of a climate emergency. Katharine shares some thought provoking information on how reducing over diagnosis and over-treatment has the potential to cut healthcare’s carbon emissions, while at the same time safeguarding the quality of care and ensuring that patient outcomes aren’t adversely affected.
Read more at https://www.greenerpractice.co.uk/over-diagnosis-and-testing
2022-02-0408 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsA Case Finding Hypertension ServiceEarly detection of hypertension is vital and there is evidence that community pharmacy has a key role in detection and subsequent treatment of hypertension and CVD, improving outcomes and reducing the burden on GPs.
Debby Crockford, Chief Officer at Community Pharmacy South Central, introduces us to ‘A Case Finding Hypertension Service’ which is an interplay between Primary Care and pharmacies. Debby explains how the service works and addresses potential concerns GPs may have.
Find out more here: https://www.england.nhs.uk/primary-care/pharmacy/pharmacy-integration-fund/nhs-community-pharmacy-hypertension-case-finding-advanced-service/
2022-02-0215 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsPharmaceuticals in the environment - a growing problemFollowing our podcast ' Do you want to be a Green GP? ' Dr Katharine Edmonds joins us for the next in a series of green podcasts. The NHS makes up 5% of the UK's carbon emissions, with the biggest contributing factor being pharmaceuticals. Katharine shares some thought provoking information and tips to help you and your patients with deprescribing.
Read more at https://www.greenerpractice.co.uk/deprescribing
2022-01-2109 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsDo you want to be a Green GP?A 2022 survey of Wessex GPs, revealed that 96% feel that Primary Care should be taking action to combat climate change.
Dr Katharine Edmonds, GP & Co chair of the Green GP Network in Wessex talks with Laura Edwards about green issues and how we can make it easy to be green (& save money in the process).
Find out more at: https://www.wessexlmcs.com/greengpwessex
2021-12-1618 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsHow we can cope with ongoing stressWessex LMCs Joint CEO, Dr Laura Edwards talk with John Perry on how we can cope with ongoing stress. John has particular expertise in the areas of psychological wellbeing, stress management & resilience and values exploration.
What are 'awe walks'?
2021-11-2527 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsVery Brief Advice (VBA) for Smoking CessationThis conversation between Dr Richard Roope and Cancer Research UK facilitators Victoria Wright & Lucy Pickup discusses the importance of smoking cessation for patients, highlighting the inequality gap and the simple 30-second technique to effectively deliver ‘Very Brief Advice’ in a consultation.
Cancer Research UK facilitators can provide a short training session for PCNs on delivering VBA. If you would like more information or to arrange this then contact england.wessexcanceralliance@nhs.net.
2021-10-0516 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsBecoming a Practice Manager PartnerRecorded during our 2021 PM Conference, PM Supporters Nicky Wornell and Alex Kimber discuss the pros and cons of becoming a PM Partner.
2021-09-2313 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsThe Job's Too Big (for PMs)Louise Greenwood talks to Jenny Partridge, one of our PM Supporters to tackle the problem of the current PM role – ‘The Job’s Too Big’. Some practical solutions are offered including our new initiative for PMs to find a ‘Space to Thrive’.
2021-08-1023 min
Wessex LMCs PodcastsPrevention & Screening in Cancer what is Primary Care's role?This conversation between Dr Julia Hempenstall and Dr Richard Roope summarises what we can do to prevent cancers and how we can help with screening uptake.
Dr Roope is a portfolio GP with a special interest in Cancer. He has held national and local leadership roles in the field and works in the Wessex Rapid Investigation Service.
Please see https://www.wessexlmcs.com/canceraudiovideopodcastsandrecordedwebinars for a copy of the presentation slides
2021-07-1921 min