Skill mix: Using the assistant practitioner to drive efficiency

Abstract

This article outlines the development of the assistant practitioner role within a primary care setting and the experiences of 5 trainee assistant practitioners undertaking a foundation degree in health and social care delivered by the University of Bolton. The article will examine the changes in staff skill mix within general practice, and how the assistant practitioner role aims to contribute to the efficacy of services, improve patient access, and continuity of care. Furthermore, it will explore how it is offering career progression for healthcare assistants, in line with the Skills for Health (2015) skills escalator. A focus group methodology was used to gather the views of the trainee assistant practitioners at the end of their university programme and about to enter their new role. They were asked to reflect on the benefits of their learning and competency development, considering how their role has changed and will change in the future.