Additional Roles

What Are Additional Roles?

Additional Roles - It’s a national NHS programme designed to bring a wider range of healthcare professionals into GP surgeries.

This means that alongside our doctors and nurses, patients can now see other specialists — such as physiotherapists, clinical pharmacists, dietitians, occupational therapists and social prescribers.

The aim is simple:

• Quicker access to the right professional for your needs.
• More specialist support without always needing to see a GP first.
• Joined-up care from a team working together to improve your health and wellbeing.

By having these extra roles in the practice, patients get access to more expertise, while GPs have more time to focus on complex medical cases.
 

Clinical Pharmacist (CP)

Our Clinical Pharmacists are experts in medicines and how they work. They support patients with long-term conditions, review medication for safety and effectiveness, and provide advice on side effects or alternative treatments. They also work closely with GPs and other healthcare professionals to ensure patients are getting the best possible outcomes from their prescriptions.

Clinical Pharmacists are the main healthcare professionals who complete medication reviews in the surgery. This means if you are due a medication review, our reception team will usually book your appointment with a Clinical Pharmacist rather than a GP.

First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP)

Our First Contact Physiotherapists are specialists in assessing, diagnosing, and managing muscle, joint, and bone problems. Instead of waiting for a GP appointment, you can see an FCP directly for issues such as back pain, sprains, sports injuries, or arthritis. They provide expert advice, treatment plans, and onward referrals if further investigations or specialist care are needed.

Occupational Therapist (OT)

Our Occupational Therapists support patients who are finding everyday activities difficult due to illness, disability, or changes in health. They help people stay independent and improve their quality of life by offering practical advice, rehabilitation techniques, and support with adjustments at home or work. The aim is to help you live as fully and comfortably as possible.

Social Prescriber

Our Social Prescribers help patients with the non-medical things that can affect health and wellbeing. They take time to listen and connect you with local services, groups, and activities — such as exercise classes, support groups, volunteering, or advice on housing, finances, or loneliness. The goal is to support your overall wellbeing, not just your medical needs.

Dietitian

Our Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition. They support patients with dietary advice to help manage medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, digestive issues, food intolerances, and weight management.

They work with patients to create personalised eating plans that are realistic, safe, and tailored to individual lifestyles. The aim is to help improve health, prevent illness, and support long-term wellbeing through better nutrition.

If you think you may benefit from seeing or speaking to one of our ARRS team members, please contact the surgery. Our reception team will be happy to help signpost you to the right professional and book you an appointment.