Specialists (PwSI) in Substance Misuse Management Training

We develop and deliver a programme of continuing professional development for established professionals. The training programme, which is supported by a website, is competency based on national GP with Special Interests, Pharmacist with Special Interests and nurse competency frameworks. The programme is supported and externally assured by the local RCGP faculty.

"The training is interactive. I like the blend of theory and practice: examining case scenarios and reviews and then discussion"

Dr Kasia Hodun, Specialist Prescribing GP

 

Substance Misuse Training:

Since 2005 we have been training GPs, Pharmacists and their teams to manage substance misuse better. We designed and deliver the award winning training. The training packages we deliver are:

  1. GP 'taster' session - a 'coffee time' visit to explain roles, outline our service and offer more advanced training.
  2. Basic GP and nurse skills training - 1.5 hour workshop covers participants' learning needs and the pros and cons of managing substance misusers in general practice. The First Contact '10 minute' consultation model is described.
  3. Harm minimisation training - a 45 minute practical demonstration of how users use drugs and how practitioners can advise them about reducing their risks of Blood Borne Viruses (Hepatitis A, B. C and HIV).
  4. Receptionist training - receptionists have an important first contact with substance misusers. In an hour we cover ideas about what ‘drugs' are, how we view drug use, what help and advice is appropriate, what services are available and the role of the GP and Substance Misuse Practitioner.
  5. RCGP Certificate in Substance Misuse Management - a nationally recognised qualification at two levels.
  6. Bespoke education and training - we provide individual and focussed education and advice on many aspects of prescribing, particularly to new prescribers.
  7. How to get the best out of the Shared Care service - in this workshop we look at skills training, referral and liaison with the central prescribing service.