Health Care Support Worker

Home Roles Nurses Nurse-Mid Career Health Care Support Worker

In a GP surgery, HCSWs typically work under the supervision of Practice Nurses, General Practitioners (GPs), and Nurse Practitioners. Their responsibilities may include:

Clinical Support:

Measuring and recording vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, pulse, temperature, oxygen saturation).
Performing ECGs (Electrocardiograms) when required.
Taking and preparing blood samples (phlebotomy) for testing.
Assisting in wound care and dressings.
Supporting the delivery of long-term condition reviews (e.g., diabetes, asthma, COPD).
Health Promotion and Screening:
Conducting health checks as part of NHS health screening programs.
Providing lifestyle advice on smoking cessation, weight management, and physical activity.
Supporting vaccination and immunisation programs.

Administrative Support:

Updating and maintaining accurate patient records using practice management systems.
Ensuring effective communication between patients and clinicians.

Patient Support:

Providing reassurance and answering questions from patients before or after procedures.
Promoting self-care and encouraging adherence to care plans.

Enhancing Patient Access and Experience:

HCSWs ensure patients receive timely assessments and routine care.
Their approachable manner helps reduce patient anxiety, particularly for those with long-term conditions or requiring regular monitoring.

Supporting Preventative Care:

Through health checks and screenings, HCSWs contribute to the early detection of health issues.
Promoting healthier lifestyles and delivering preventative advice improves public health outcomes.

Relieving Clinical Pressures:

By handling routine tasks, HCSWs allow GPs, Practice Nurses, and Advanced Nurse Practitioners to focus on more complex cases.
This improves the efficiency of patient care and reduces waiting times.

Contributing to Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs):

HCSWs work alongside nurses, GPs, pharmacists, and other allied health professionals, fostering collaborative working within the practice.
Their input ensures continuity of care for patients with chronic illnesses.

Developing Skills and Career Progression:

HCSWs often have opportunities to gain further qualifications, such as NVQs or Diplomas in Health and Social Care.
With additional training, they may progress into roles such as Assistant Practitioners or Trainee Nursing Associates.