PCN – ARCH

Revolutionising Access to Medical Care: Your Guide to the New Normal

Since the onset of Covid-19, our approach to accessing medical help has transformed dramatically. Our practice is now part of a larger network called ARCH, which includes nine local practices across Alfreton, Ripley, Crich, and Heanor. This Primary Care Network collaboration allows us to offer a wider array of specialised services to better meet your needs. There are currently 15 PCNs in Derbyshire. The networks will provide the structure and funding for services to be developed locally, in response to the needs of the patients they serve.

Here’s what you can expect:

• GPA Mental Health Assistant – This professional provides support for mental health issues to help you navigate challenging times. GPA MH assistants can conduct dementia reviews.
• First Contact Physio – FCP’s have extensive experience in the assessment and management of musculoskeletal conditions – such as back or neck pain – and see these patients without the need for a GP appointment. If you have bone, joint or muscle pain, you can see an FCP.
• Pharmacist – Our pharmacist is authorised to change prescriptions and conduct medical reviews, ensuring that your medications are appropriate and effective for your health conditions.
• Social Prescriber – This role focuses on addressing your non-medical needs. For instance, if you’re struggling with housing or financial issues, the social prescriber can connect you with local support organisations to develop a care plan that fits your situation.
• Youth Social Prescriber – Specialising in support for younger individuals, this specialist helps address the unique challenges faced by youth, linking them to resources that promote their wellbeing.
• Home Visiting Service – For patients requiring end-of-life care or those unable to travel, this service ensures compassionate medical support in the comfort of your home.

In addition to these services, we have introduced an extended hours service through Church Farm which offers GP appointments, women’s health, ear syringe etc

Patients will also notice some changes in our capacity to handle routine procedures like blood tests. You may be referred to external services, such as those at Ripley and Babington Hospitals, which can be accessed via Swiftqueue.com.

When you call the practice with a health-related issue, our receptionists are trained to assess your needs. They will ask about your symptoms and direct you to the most suitable specialist, whether that’s a physiotherapist, mental health expert, or another professional, without requiring an initial appointment with a doctor. This streamlined process means you receive specialised care more quickly, allowing our doctors to focus on more complex medical issues.