Testimonial from Deborah Gompertz
Professor Chris Witty has said we must adapt for an aging population, maximising the quality of health for the older adult. The older population is growing, and along with this, so are complexity and multimorbidity.
As general practitioners based in the community, we are ideally suited to know what services we have and need to support our aging population to live well in the place they want to be. GPs are already generalists, and a large number are already working in multidisciplinary teams, in different settings allowing excellent individualised person centred care.
With this framework, the RCGP is supporting members to navigate the range of career options available which may not always be in standard settings. The RCGP are endorsing this role with supportive informational resources, and it is important for GPs to have their endorsement of this role.
What does the GPwER in frailty framework cover?
The framework offers a benchmark and recommendations for professional development and progression within this role. It covers how care is delivered, where, services that interface the role, and to how to develop and maintain the role.
How does this framework help colleagues and GPs?
Not only does the framework act as a guide for GPs who want to vary their career and expand their portfolio, it also supports their appraisers, and importantly will help employers to create the relevant job descriptions.
How can GPs get the most out of the framework?
Networking with the already growing tribe of ‘Geri-GP’s’ working within this framework would be a huge opportunity to learn and share ideas and roles already in existence.
There is a breadth of knowledge from service set up, education, and much more. We can be found through the Community and Primary Care Group on the British Geriatrics Society website.