GP and Practice Manager Advisory Group

This research study aims to examine the impact of electronic clinical decision support tools (eCDS) on GP workload. It is taking place as a nested study within the current ERICA trial (electronic risk assessment tools for cancer [eRATs]). ERICA aims to assess the clinical and cost effectiveness of the eRATs for early cancer diagnosis in general practice; I am undertaking my PhD which examines the GP workload implications of using such tools, with a particular focus on the impact on consultation duration.

I am seeking up to 4 GPs and up to 3 practice managers to form an advisory group. I would like to form a ‘core’ group with these members, but also to recruit those who would prefer more light-touch involvement, as associate members, to which there is no limit on numbers!

I am keen to involve GPs at any career stage, including registrars, with a range of roles (e.g. partners, salaried or locum GPs), from practices varying in size, location and patient population demographics. Practice managers who are working as a salaried staff member or business partner of a practice are all welcome. You do not need to have research experience!

This group might be have particular relevance for those interested in digital technologies, such as the eRATs, in practice IT systems and/or GP workload and workforce issues more generally. It may also helpful for those seeking portfolio working opportunities or future engagement with research.

The role for the core group would be relatively light and would involve:

• An initial meeting to provide background, outline the research, and describe the tasks for the group
• Reading and commenting on study documents via email
• Attending 1-2 meetings a year over 2 years (4 meetings in total) to give advice on the research plans and also input to interpreting and disseminating the findings when they emerge!
• Opportunity to become authors on study publication(s)

Associate members can also be involved in the above, but for those with more time pressures, it is likely your involvement will be to give ad-hoc feedback and advice via email.

There may be an opportunity for a face-to-face event towards the end of the research period (depending on Covid-19 restrictions and group preferences)!

I look forward to hearing from those interested! Please click on the PDF documents to read a summary of the research and also terms of reference for the advisory group.

Contact Details

Emily Fletcher

Research Fellow & PhD student in Primary Care

University of Exeter Medical School

e.fletcher@exeter.ac.uk

@EmilyFletcher1