Key Information
Scope of Practice
OTs have 3 main roles to play in primary care, but this is not exhaustive as most ARRS roles are evolving. They play a key part in:
- assessing, diagnosing, and providing rehabilitation in frailty
- mental health
- Patients of working age experiencing health issues that affect their employment
They can formulate risk assessments, personalised care plans for self-management and personal goals to prevent hospital admissions and ensure that patients are safe in their own environments and stay in their own homes. They can provide bespoke advice on work and homeplace modifications. They will refer on for further care where required. They are HCPC registered.
Training Requirements
Entry requirements:
- BSc (Hons) degree in occupational therapy
- Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
If employed under ARRS contract, OTs will need to complete stage 1 & 2 of the first contact practitioner (FCP) pathway as outlined by Health Education England (HEE), within the first 12-18 months of commencing.
FCP OTs can complete this accreditation via 2 routes: a portfolio or higher education route (HEI). Completion of the HEI route result in 45-60 credits at level 7. A supervisor is required for both routes. The training listed below is essential if you want to sign off your FCP following a portfolio route.
Funding
From April 2021 onwards, OTS can be employed under the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS).
Funding for Advanced Practice Training
There are 4 possible funding options available for Advance Practice training, see further info below or contact the Devon Training Hub direct to find out more:
CPD Funding
The 3 year CPD allowance of £1000 for AHPs came to an end on 31st March 2023. A deadline for submission of final claims by practices was set for 21st April 2023. DTH are working with the ICS to decide on how to allocate any underspend. For more information on CPD funding please contact andy.smallshaw@nhs.net
Supervision Requirements
Should have access to monthly supervision from a GP, consultant practitioner or advanced practitioner. Should also have an appropriate named individual in the PCN to provide general advice and support on a day-to-day basis
Devon Training Hub have recently produced a summary guide covering the supervision of all roles including GPs, Nurses, Non-Medical Prescribers, Advanced Practitioners and new roles funded through the ARRS scheme.
The guide contains the latest information on supervision requirements for each role, which team members of the team can supervise them, & details of training requirements & CPD opportunities for supervisors.
Occupational Therapists in Primary Care
GPs, clinical directors, business managers, workforce planners, practice nurses, education leads monthly drop in (12.30–1pm)
For more information and to sign up visit the RCOT website.
Learning & Development
Useful Links:
Devon Training Hub Offers
You will find multiple training opportunities on our website.
DTH offer a range of modules relevant to first contact practitioners in primary care including:
- Introduction to Clinical Red Flags
- Consultations Skills & MDT Working
- GP How does it work?
- Chronic Disease updates
For support and guidance on first contact pathway or other training needs please contact either Kerry-annevans@nhs.net or clarecambray@nhs.net
For those new to primary care, we are pleased to offer a bespoke course to support you in your exciting new role; Transition to primary care (consisting of 4 F2F days in various locations in Devon) dates to be confirmed. Please contact Kerry-annevans@nhs.net for further info.
For information on Communities of Practice / Peer Learning Groups in Devon & the South West please contact Devon Training Hub directly or see our DTH Guide to ARRS Community of Practice.
