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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Requesting Medical Support: GP, Paramedic, and Specialist Services Policy

1. Introduction and Purpose

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all service users. This policy outlines the procedures for requesting medical support from General Practitioners (GPs), paramedics, and specialist services when a service user’s health condition requires professional medical intervention. It ensures compliance with the Health and Social Care Act 2008, the Care Act 2014, and CQC regulations regarding safe care and treatment.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all staff, including care workers, supervisors, and management, involved in the provision of domiciliary care services. It covers the process for identifying the need for medical support, contacting healthcare professionals, and ensuring follow-up care.

3. Identifying the Need for Medical Support

Staff are trained to identify early signs of health deterioration, including:

• Physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or signs of infection.
• Changes in mental state, including confusion, agitation, or unusual behaviour.
• Concerns related to medication side effects.

Staff are encouraged to act promptly and escalate concerns when they arise. Regular training ensures that staff can recognise subtle changes that may indicate an underlying health issue.

4. Requesting GP Support

When a service user presents with non-urgent medical concerns, staff will:

• Contact the service user’s GP directly, providing detailed information about symptoms and any observations.
• Document the date, time, and nature of the request in the service user’s care record.
• Ensure the service user consents to the GP contact, unless they lack capacity, in which case a best-interest decision will be made in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
• Follow up with the GP practice to confirm the appointment or advice given.

If the GP prescribes medication or treatment, staff will support the service user in understanding and adhering to the recommendations, ensuring proper documentation.

5. Requesting Paramedic Support

Paramedic support is requested in emergencies where immediate intervention is required. Situations include:

• Severe chest pain, stroke symptoms, or respiratory distress.
• Significant injuries from falls or accidents.
• Severe allergic reactions or uncontrolled bleeding.

In such cases, staff will:

• Call 999 or 112 immediately and provide clear information to the emergency operator.
• Stay with the service user, providing reassurance and first aid until paramedics arrive.
• Notify the service user’s next of kin and the management team.
• Document the incident, including symptoms, actions taken, and outcomes.

6. Requesting Specialist Services

Specialist medical support is sought when a service user requires care beyond general practice. This includes referrals to:

• Community nursing services for wound care or chronic disease management.
• Mental health services for psychological support.
• Specialist clinics for conditions such as diabetes, cardiology, or neurology.

To facilitate specialist referrals, staff will:

• Liaise with the GP to obtain a referral.
• Ensure the service user understands the purpose of the referral and consents to it.
• Assist with appointment scheduling and transportation if required.
• Document all actions taken and monitor the outcome.

7. Communication and Documentation

Effective communication and thorough documentation are critical in managing medical support requests. Staff will:

• Maintain detailed records of all medical interactions, including symptoms, contacts made, and outcomes.
• Ensure care plans are updated to reflect any new medical advice or treatment.
• Use secure channels for sharing sensitive health information, in line with GDPR requirements.

8. Follow-Up and Monitoring

After medical support has been provided, staff will:

• Monitor the service user’s condition and report any ongoing concerns.
• Ensure prescribed treatments are followed, including medication adherence.
• Arrange follow-up appointments if required.
• Keep family members and relevant professionals informed.

9. Training and Staff Competency

All staff receive training on identifying health concerns, effective communication with healthcare providers, and emergency response. Regular refresher courses ensure that staff remain confident and competent in managing medical support requests.

10. Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement

To ensure the effectiveness of this policy, we will:

• Conduct regular audits of medical support requests and outcomes.
• Review incidents involving medical interventions to identify areas for improvement.
• Seek feedback from service users, families, and healthcare professionals.

11. Safeguarding and Escalation

If a service user’s health concern raises safeguarding issues, staff will follow {{org_field_name}}’s safeguarding procedures. This includes reporting concerns to the local safeguarding authority and CQC if necessary.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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