Seven new healthcare assistants trained by Croydon Primary Care Trust have been kitted out in new uniforms ready for work in ten of the borough's GP practices.
Identifiable by their uniforms - lilac and white striped tunic and navy trousers - after six months' training the assistants are ready to help with many of the routine daily tasks such as blood tests, giving lifestyle advice and new patient registration checks.
Dr John Spicer, GP at Woodside Practice, said: "The new healthcare assistants have a crucial role to play in general practice."Having a wider range of skilled staff who can carry out some of the day to day uncomplicated nursing work, frees up time for practice nurses and doctors and ensures that patients can be seen quicker."
Their training programme will continue over the next 12 months led by a qualified clinical nurse trainer, with many of the assistants working towards a NVQ Level 3 qualification.
Croydon Primary Care Trust wants to recruit and train more Health Care Assistants.
For information, contact Chris Wright or Sue Cressey on 020 8401 3916.
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