At Medical Staffing, we understand that the role of a paramedic is constantly evolving, offering new opportunities and career paths. With the introduction of ARRS (Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme) funding, many paramedics are making the move from secondary care into primary care, broadening their career prospects and exploring the vast scope the profession has to offer.
Why Transition from Secondary Care to Primary Care?
Considering Primary Care
One of our Paramedics has realised that returning to the road as a Band 7 paramedic would feel like a step back in their career progression. Additionally, opportunities for advancement within LAS seemed limited. Leaving the organisation where they had been deeply entrenched felt daunting, but as they began exploring job opportunities online, they discovered a whole new world outside the ambulance service.
Although they initially envisioned themselves as a critical care advanced practitioner, their year of lecturing made them reassess their priorities. They now value a regular sleep pattern, weekends with their partner, and time with family, friends, and their dog. Primary care, with its focus on the intricacies of diagnosis, treatment, and management, started to appeal to them, especially after teaching modules on minor health issues.
In primary care, paramedics are equipped with tools like the ability to prescribe, perform point-of-care investigations, and follow up with patients—capabilities that were limited in her previous role.
The Benefits of Working in Primary Care
For them, working in primary care has been a "learn as you go" experience, significantly enhancing their knowledge as a clinician. The proximity to GPs and other advanced care practitioners has facilitated their growth, offering mentorship and advanced knowledge—something that was lacking in their autonomous role as a paramedic.
Unlike large organisations where paramedics might feel like just another "bum on a seat," primary care offers recognition and rewards for hard work, reflected in both pay and career advancement. Support for development, such as funded master's degrees in advanced practice and prescribing courses, is readily available, helping paramedics reach the advanced practitioner level recommended by the First Contact Practitioner (FCP) Pathway.
Tips for Paramedics Transitioning to Primary Care
Don’t Fear Leaving the Ambulance Service: Contrary to popular belief, moving into primary care for better work-life balance and career progression is not a "cop-out." There are plenty of young professionals in primary care looking to advance their careers.
Apply for Jobs, Even Without Primary Care Experience: Don’t be discouraged by job postings that list primary care experience as "required" or "desirable." Cast your net wide, and see what opportunities arise.
Understand the First Contact Practitioner Pathway: Familiarise yourself with the FCP Pathway, as it will help you understand your development trajectory in primary care. Mentioning this knowledge during interviews can demonstrate your understanding of the role’s requirements.
Consider Additional Education: Taking a module in minor illness, minor injury, or advanced assessment at the postgraduate level can boost your CV. These modules can often be completed independently, making them more affordable and manageable alongside shift work.
Highlight Your Teaching Experience: If you have experience as an educator or mentor, emphasise this in your application. It shows that you stay up to date with your knowledge and skills, setting you apart from other candidates.
What to Know Before Moving to Primary Care
The transition to primary care can be challenging, particularly in terms of self-worth and potential judgment from colleagues in frontline work. You may initially feel like a failure for leaving the ambulance service, missing the excitement of high-pressure situations. However, you will soon realise that the joy of helping patients recover through ongoing care in primary care was equally rewarding.
In frontline work, many calls involve primary care issues, which can sometimes feel like a misuse of resources. However, in primary care, those same calls become an essential part of the job, and you’ll have the skills and tools to treat these patients appropriately.
Why Medical Staffing?
At Medical Staffing, we support paramedics in their career transitions, whether you’re moving from secondary care to primary care or exploring other opportunities.