The Programme aims to raise awareness of the positive links between health and work and ensure GPs are equipped to provide support and advice to patients about fitness for work issues. The Programme consists of a series of one-off
half day workshops which will be delivered around the country until March 2011.
There is considerable evidence that enabling people to return to work is good for their long term health. Worklessness can cause poor health and health inequality, however many patients require active support to be able to return to work or to continue working with a medical condition.
Funded by the Department for Work and Pensions, the Royal College of General Practitioners is rolling out a programme that will be delivered through a series of interactive half day workshops throughout Great Britain that offer recent evidence about work and health - along with skills and strategies for managing difficult consultations.
The purpose of this training is to increase the knowledge, skills and confidence of GPs in dealing with clinical issues relating to work and health; to ensure that they are aware of their responsibilities in this area and to signpost additional means of support which will enable them and their teams to be confident that they are providing the best possible patient care.
RCGP Chairman Steve Field said " This is a major boost for the College and for GPs. Tackling health inequalities is a big priority for us and helping people to remain in or return to employment is clearly one of the best ways of improving the mental, physical and economic well-being for our patients."
" However, helping patients return to work can put GPs in a difficult and stressful situation and many GPs worry about consultations on this issue. The National Education Programme will remove many of the anxieties and concerns by giving GPs increased confidence to approach and deal with difficult situations and to make the best decisions for patients in the long term. "
Lord McKenzie, Minister for the Department for Work and Pensions said " We know work is good for you - more than ever it is important to help people with health issues remain or stay in work so that they can support themselves and their families. This initiative will support doctors to do just that. "
" As it has been developed by GPs for GPs, those attending the workshops can be confident that it will be time well spent and that they will come away with effective strategies for dealing with work related issues that they can then share among other members of the primary care team."
Chaired by a local leader and delivered by a RCGP trained GP and specialist Occupational Health Physician, the National Education Programme began in June 2009 and is available across Great Britain.
Around 100 - 150 workshops will be delivered over a two year period by the College's local and regional Faculty offices with the aim of providing training and support for between 3000 and 4500 GP's.
To find the closest workshop to you, please visit the RCGP website: www.rcgp.org.uk/healthandwork