Health Care Assistant - HCA ( NHS Health Checks Program)
23 hours ago
Kettering
The Healthcare Assistant (HCA) will play a vital role in delivering the NHS Health Checks Program, aimed at preventing cardiovascular diseases and improving health outcomes for adults aged 40-74. The HCA will conduct health assessments, provide lifestyle advice, and ensure accurate data entry and reporting in line with NHS and North Northamptonshire Council standards. Key Responsibilities
Health Assessments: - Perform comprehensive NHS Health Checks, including measurements such as blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol (via Point of Care Testing), and glucose levels. - Collect and record patient data, including lifestyle factors, family history, and QRISK scores. Patient Interaction: - Deliver lifestyle advice tailored to individual health risks, including guidance on weight management, smoking cessation, and physical activity. - Provide dementia advice for eligible patients over 65 years. Follow-Up and Referrals: - Identify abnormal parameters and refer patients to GPs or appropriate health services as per NICE guidelines. - Ensure timely follow-up for patients requiring further investigation or treatment. Data Management: - Accurately input patient information into clinical systems (e.g., EMIS, SystmOne) and the Council’s IT solution. - Ensure compliance with GDPR and maintain patient confidentiality at all times. Equipment and Safety: - Operate and maintain Point of Care Testing equipment in line with Council protocols. - Follow infection control and clinical waste disposal procedures as per NHS guidelines. Compliance and Training: - Stay updated with NHS Health Check Best Practice Guidance and participate in mandatory training, including POCT operation and motivational interviewing techniques. - Contribute to audits and quality improvement initiatives as required by the Council. Key Qualifications and Skills:
Essential: - NVQ Level 2/3 in Health and Social Care or equivalent. - Experience in conducting health checks or similar clinical assessments. - Strong interpersonal and communication skills for delivering lifestyle advice. Desirable - Familiarity with NHS Health Check standards and QRISK score calculation. - Experience with EMIS, SystmOne, or similar clinical systems. - Training in motivational interviewing or Making Every Contact Count (MECC). Competencies - Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. - High attention to detail for accurate data recording and reporting. - Commitment to equality, accessibility, and patient-centered care. Working Conditions: - Flexible hours, including evening and weekend shifts, to improve accessibility for patients. - Travel to various community or GP settings across North Northamptonshire. - Private consultation areas will be provided for conducting health checks. Job Type: Fixed term contract
Contract length: 2-3 months
Pay: £13.50 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits: - Free or subsidised travel Ability to commute/relocate: Northamptonshire: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred) Work Location: In person
