Our vision for ACPs
“As my career progressed, I wanted to continue working with patients, rather than becoming a manager. I was fortunate enough to be supported by our Emergency Department and given time to develop as an advanced practitioner.
Advising on the development of ACP roles across the Trust and supporting their ongoing education and training eventually became Matt’s role working in the corporate nursing directorate as a strategic lead for advanced practice, due to the expertise he developed in the field. However, even now, he continues to work as an autonomous clinical practitioner for three days per week, while providing educational support for trainees.
Qualified ACPs take direct clinical responsibility for the patients they see, while also getting involved in research, audits, service improvement and education.
“This is a role for people who want take on new levels of responsibility, while still being in contact with patients”, said Matt.
Today, UHL has around 100 ACPs, working in a variety of roles, including nurses, physiotherapists, paramedics and dietitians.
“We’re recruiting all the time and any registered health professional can become an ACP. It’s an exciting role, but it comes with big responsibility, as you are making decisions with patients and you have to be prepared for that.”
Becoming an ACP involves commitment to undertaking a three-year Masters degree programme, with a range of modules covering topics such as history-taking, clinical examination, non-medical prescribing, research and a service improvement project, plus an extensive portfolio of evidence of development in role.
Colleagues are paid at Band 6 level during their apprenticeship period, transition into a Band 7 role on completion of competencies until they move into the qualified ACP role at the end of their three year programme.
To be eligible to apply, you must:
- Be an experienced Registered Healthcare professional
- Meet the criteria to be accepted onto the university Masters course (Degree at 2:2 level or above, evidence of ability to study at this level in English)
- Apply for and be successful in securing a trainee role at the Trust
More information can be found here
For details on how to apply, please contact [email protected]. Webinars are regularly held, to allow colleagues to ask Matt any questions they have about the ACP pathway, in a small group scenario.