Factors that influence the quality of the clinical supervision experience in a first contact physiotherapy (FCP) role - The perspectives of supervisors and supervisees - A qualitative analysis

PURPOSE

First contact practitioner (FCP) roles have been developed to supplement the primary care workforce in managing the burden of musculoskeletal conditions. In order to quality assure and standardise capability of these clinicians an educational framework was developed by NHS England. The Roadmap to Practice (2020) was the curriculum designed to support and develop capability for FCP roles. This secondary analysis of a broader research project aimed to understand the factors affecting the supervisory experience from both a supervisor and supervisee perspective.

METHODS

A qualitative design using group interviews and an online survey was utilised to examine the experiences of these clinicians on their journey navigating and supporting the Roadmap to Practice portfolio process.

FINDINGS

Three principal themes were identified that affected the supervisory process; preparation of both supervisors and supervisee; the person (supervisor) and the practicalities associated with supervision.

CONCLUSION

There were numerous factors influencing the quality of clinical supervision. Adequate preparation of the supervisor and supervisee is critical to success. The attributes of the supervisor were important in the enhancing the quality of supervisory process. Time afforded to undertake supervision and access to appropriate supervisors need to be adequate and accounted for in workforce planning. A paradigm shift in workplace culture is required so clinical supervision is seen as an integral component in maintaining quality and assuring patient safety.

The development and validation of a global advanced development framework for the pharmacy workforce: a four-stage multi-methods approach

BACKGROUND

Studies have indicated that a generalisable and translatable global framework is a useful tool for supporting career progression and recognising advanced practice.

AIM

To develop and validate a global advanced competency development framework as a tool to advance the pharmacy profession globally.

METHOD

A four-stage multi-methods approach was adopted. In sequence, this comprised an assessment of initial content and a cultural validation of the advanced level framework. Following this, we conducted a transnational modified Delphi followed by an online survey sampling the global pharmacy leadership community. Finally, a series of case studies was constructed exemplifying the framework implementation.

RESULTS

Initial validation resulted in a modified draft competency framework comprising 34 developmental competencies across six clusters. Each competency has three phases of advancement to support practitioner progression. The modified Delphi stage provided feedback on framework modifications related to cultural issues, including missing competencies and framework comprehensiveness. External engagement and case study stages provided further validity on the framework implementation and dissemination.

CONCLUSION

The four-staged approach demonstrated transnational validation of a global advanced competency framework as a mapping and development tool for the pharmacy professions. Further study is needed to develop a global glossary of terminologies on advanced and specialist practice. Also, developing an accompanying professional recognition system and education and training programmes to support framework implementation is recommended.