Collegiate Role
I have thoroughly enjoyed my first exposure into the medical field during my GP and specialist placements. Throughout my 5 week GP placement I gained a greater appreciation of the diversity of the role of the general practitioner. Every patient presents with a unique and varied set of concerns which requires individualization of care and management plans. This diversity inevitably requires the practitioner to employ a collaborative and often multidisciplinary approach to care.
A multidisciplinary approach is the backbone of modern medical practice. The ability to deliver the most sensitive and responsive health care, based on the individual needs of the patient, requires a cohesive and collaborative approach. “Interdisciplinary care, although not denying the importance of specific skills, seeks to blur the professional boundaries and requires trust, tolerance, and a willingness to share responsibility.” In modern medicine there is an increased focus on the biopyschosocial needs of the patient particularly within general practice. It is becoming apparent that a patient may need the specialist care of several practitioners such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry or dietician. The role of allied health plays a crucial role in building a team health care approach that is aimed at meeting the holistic needs of the patient.
In my previous clinical experience as a podiatrist I was often involved in the multidisciplinary care of diabetic patients on the Enhanced Primary Care management plan. This involved liaising with the GP and several other health professionals to ensure adequate and sufficient care for the patient. Whilst initially I found this an overwhelming experience, trying to communicate and coordinate care of the patient with several other health professionals, it undoubtedly resulted in improved care and outcomes for the patient. This experience has allowed me to appreciate the role of the GP who encompasses a central role in the patients’
A multidisciplinary approach is the backbone of modern medical practice. The ability to deliver the most sensitive and responsive health care, based on the individual needs of the patient, requires a cohesive and collaborative approach. “Interdisciplinary care, although not denying the importance of specific skills, seeks to blur the professional boundaries and requires trust, tolerance, and a willingness to share responsibility.” In modern medicine there is an increased focus on the biopyschosocial needs of the patient particularly within general practice. It is becoming apparent that a patient may need the specialist care of several practitioners such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry or dietician. The role of allied health plays a crucial role in building a team health care approach that is aimed at meeting the holistic needs of the patient.
In my previous clinical experience as a podiatrist I was often involved in the multidisciplinary care of diabetic patients on the Enhanced Primary Care management plan. This involved liaising with the GP and several other health professionals to ensure adequate and sufficient care for the patient. Whilst initially I found this an overwhelming experience, trying to communicate and coordinate care of the patient with several other health professionals, it undoubtedly resulted in improved care and outcomes for the patient. This experience has allowed me to appreciate the role of the GP who encompasses a central role in the patients’