Introduction to Medical Administration in Healthcare

Administrative staff are at the heart of healthcare. They're often the first people patients talk to and are hugely influential in the running of the workplace.

Our continuing professional development course gives you the chance to further your professional skills and knowledge. Study for five hours per week over 12 weeks and:

• build professional skills
• expand your knowledge of the integrated care system
• gain a greater awareness of medical practice and terminology
• increase the signposting and assistance administrative staff offer to patients
• create an online portfolio tailormade for your next appraisal
• build your confidence in your own career prospects in the NHS.

Learning made simple
The course is funded by the Integrated Care Board (ICB) and takes a 'blended' approach to learning.

You'll take part in a weekly, scheduled virtual group tutoring session, online learning, and be allocated practical tasks to be carried out during the working week.

Tutors will be available during standard working hours to answer questions and offer support. Two in-person sessions will take place in the Essex area to provide an introduction and hands-on training.

Supporting GPs and practice managers
High-quality administration has the potential to improve patient experience, reduce inequalities, promote better care and contribute to a better working environment for staff, according to research by The Kings Fund.

Practices will be involved at every stage of the process, first designating a mentor – either a practice manager or senior staff member – and also benefiting from the e-portfolio created as part of the course, which will be central to participants' next appraisals.

Upon successful completion of the course, each learner will receive a certificate and 30 university credits.

Mentoring your staff
Mentors will be asked to designate a small amount of time (less than an hour per week throughout the 12-week course) to support their learner. In some cases, mentoring can be passed onto another staff member such as the practice nurse.

At the beginning of the course all mentors will be invited to a short group video call where they will be introduced to course organisers and have the opportunity to ask questions. Mentors will also receive a handbook and a designated email address that will allow them to contact the course organisers at any time.