PRIMARY AND URGENT CARE

Contribute to research!

Understanding the roles and work of paramedics in primary care: A national cross-sectional survey


What is this project about?
Calling all paramedics working in primary care! We are inviting you to participate in a questionnaire as part of a study which aims improve understanding of the ways in which paramedics are working within the primary care workforce in the United Kingdom. Whilst paramedics are currently working in primary care roles, evidence must be generated to show how and why these changes would work, for whom, in what context and to what extent. That’s why we’re keen to understand from your perspective, as a paramedic working in primary care, the impact you feel you have and your perspectives of your role. We hope that the results of our research will influence future policy and professional change, as well as support paramedics working in primary care in the future.

Who can take part in the survey?

• Adults of any gender, aged 18 to 65 years
• Paramedics registered with the Health and Care Professions Council
• Paramedics working in primary care within the United Kingdom

Who cannot take part in the survey?

This survey is particularly aimed at paramedics working in primary care in the UK. If you are not a paramedic registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, or do not work in primary care, we do not need to hear from you at this time.

Do I have to take part?

Not at all, participation is completely voluntary.

What do I need to do?

You will be asked a series of questions about the work you undertake in primary care, and your perceptions of this. This should take about 20 minutes. No other background knowledge is required.
The survey is accessible here: https://oxford.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/understandingparamedicsinprimarycare  

Need more details?

If you’re not sure whether you can take part, do get in touch with the research team via Georgette Eaton, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Services at the University of Oxford – georgette.eaton@phc.ox.ac.uk

Workforce development survey
This project is being completed under the supervision of Dr Kamal R. Mahtani, Dr Geoff Wong, Dr Stephanie Tierney and Dr Veronika Williams from the University of Oxford, and Professor Julia Williams from the University of Hertfordshire. It is funded through a Doctoral Research Fellowship from the National Institute of Health research.

Primary and urgent care workstream development survey

Large numbers of UK paramedics are now employed in the field of clinical practice which is broadly known as Primary Care. In GP practices, in minor injury and illness units and in a variety of other settings, suitably qualified and experienced paramedics are proving to be flexible, adaptable and safe in the delivery of urgent and ongoing care. Many are developing considerable specialist expertise in a range of different roles.

The College of Paramedics supports the development of paramedic practice in primary care, recognising the contribution that paramedics can make to effective and safe care in community settings. The College partnered together with Health Education England and Skills for Health to produce the Paramedic Specialist in Primary and Urgent Care Core Capabilities Framework and has produced the Employers’ Guide for Paramedics in Primary and Urgent Care. This document was created by a multi-professional group, with input from a range of external stakeholders. The guide is for employers, or potential employers of paramedics – to have in one place the core information regarding:

  • The current education and regulatory standards for the paramedic profession
  • Requirements for consolidation for new registrants
  • Support and development for paramedics, including clinical supervision
  • Recommendations for CPD, appraisal and career development

The document is subject to regular review and updates as required. Feedback is welcome, please email membership@collegeofparamedics.co.uk 

The College also offers the well established Diploma in Primary and Urgent Care, a benchmark qualification for paramedics and other health professionals working in this sector.