Eastern Academic Health Science Network launches GP podcast

A series of podcasts which explore innovations that can help ease pressures in primary care has been launched by the Eastern Academic Health Science Network (AHSN).

Our Primary Care Talks is hosted by Dr Hasan Chowhan. Dr Chowan is the primary care lead for the Eastern AHSN, a GP principal in Colchester, chair of NHS North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and examiner for the Royal College of General Practitioners.

The podcast sees Dr Chowan interview fellow GPs in order to explore the smartest approaches to improving efficiency and productivity, and driving the future of health by integrating genomics into primary care.

In the very first episode, Dr Chowan speaks to Dr Neil Modha from Thistlemoor Medical Centre in Peterborough, who outlines how he managed to care for a community in which 85% of patients do not have English as a first language and struggle to communicate their health and wellbeing.

“Our GPs and their teams are doing amazing things under immense pressure, many colleagues have stressed to me the importance of finding easy and accessible ways to share our best ideas,” Dr Chowan said.

“That is why we have created the Primary Care Talks podcasts.

“Each episode is between 20-30 minutes long so it’s ideal for listening to on a commute.”

The podcasts are published on a monthly basis and can be downloaded on iTunes as well as on the Eastern AHSN website.

The network is keen to hear from people working in primary care who are running innovative local initiatives.

Victoria Corbishley, director of transformation at the Eastern AHSN, said:  “The phrase ‘If general practice fails, the whole NHS fails’ has been widely used in recent times.

“Primary Care Talks provides an interesting, fun and convenient way to share important learning between health and care professionals. Each episode focuses on innovative ways to make their working lives easier, and patient services stronger for the future.

“Busy people can download and listen when it suits them. We hope that this series will inspire listeners, help to spread best practice and encourage necessary change.”

The role of technology in primary care is increasingly important for doctors, with Digital Health News recently reporting that GPs in England believe remote working supported by technology could help ease pressures in the NHS.

Those interested in being featured in the podcast can register their interest by emailing stpsupport@eahsn.org.