General Practice Nursing Associate (GPNA): A Dynamic and Rewarding Career
General Practice Nursing Associates (GPNAs) work in GP surgeries to deliver patient-centered care as part of the wider primary healthcare team, including GPs, General Practice Nurses, Advanced Practitioners, Health Care Assistants, Allied Health Professionals, Physician Associates, Care Coordinators, Care Navigators and many more roles including those studying various health-related training programmes.
GPNAs play an important role in promoting health and preventing ill-health within the community, caring for patients ranging from infants to older people by providing a wide range of services including:
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Cervical screening and other national / local screening programmes Contraception and sexual health Ear care advice Electrocardiograms (ECGs) |
Health checks Long term conditions: Asthma, COPD, CVD, Diabetes National vaccination schedule Wound care … and more … |
GPNA is a diverse and skilled role
The GPNA role requires knowledge across the entire life course and all body systems to provide and monitor care. The specific skills needed vary depending on the patient population and NHS-commissioned work.
Autonomy and Collaboration
GPNAs are accountable professionals. They work in partnership with other clinicians, leveraging each team member’s unique skills to deliver the best outcomes for patients. As well as providing direct patient care, GPNAs have a teaching and support role, working with patients to enable self-care or teaching family members how to care for their relatives. GPNAs also adhere to the NMC Code (2018) and contribute to the education and training of others. They creating a positive learning environment and provide guidance and support to those in training, sharing their knowledge to help others grow professionally.
Accountable, holistic, evidence-based care
At the heart of the GPNA role is holistic, evidence-based, patient-centered care, achieved by adhering to professional standards, considering all aspects of a patient’s well-being, and integrating the latest research into their practice. This approach ensures high-quality care that improves health outcomes and supports those with terminal illness.
Career Opportunities
Many GPNA positions are advertised on the NHS Jobs website. Additionally, there are pathways into GPNA in Leeds through the West Yorkshire Training Hub, by visiting the Leeds Local Medical Committee website or contacting the Professional Lead for General Practice Nursing: gil.ramsden@nhs.net