A leadership programme trialled across the Midlands has improved communication between colleagues in general practices.
The Triumvirate Leadership Programme aimed to improve practices through the equal leadership of nurses, GPs and practice managers in 21 practices across the region. Some of the service improvements focused on enhancing the cohesion of practice staff, strengthening services for patients with long- term conditions, and allowing greater access for the public.
Karen Smith Young, a practice nurse working in Warwickshire, who took part in the programme said that her ability to deal with challenges had been enhanced, while her relationship with the GP had also notably improved.
Practice nurses who took part in the programme reported that leadership improved their role and increased their sense of job satisfaction.
In a survey taken before the programme began, 19% of practice nurses in the selected settings classed the communication in their practice as good. A survey taken after the programme ended found that the percentage of nurses who thought communication was good leapt to 67%.
The programme ran between March and September 2015. Participants attended 10 half day learning sessions throughout the six month scheme.
It is expected that the programme will also be rolled out to a number of other practices in the East Midlands region in the next 12 months. It is due to be accredited by the University of Salford next month.