Advanced Clinical Practice in Primary Care

Our Support to you

Advanced clinical practice is provided by skilled, registered health and care professionals.  It involves a high level of autonomy and complex decision-making underpinned by a master-level award*. The role of Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) is a valuable addition to the Primary Care workforce and continues to adapt to meet the needs of the patient population. We offer support and expert career guidance for those seeking to advance their careers in Advanced Practice. 

There are various career pathways that will develop the skills and knowledge required for the Advanced Practice roles in Primary Care.  
 

*existing practitioners without a recognised ACP Qualification may apply for the e-portfolio supported route to evidence their ability to work at an advanced level.  

How does it work?

The Advanced Clinical Practice Masters award encompasses the four pillars of Advanced Practice; clinical practice, leadership and management, education and research. The completion of the course demonstrates proficiency in the core capabilities and area-specific clinical competence in Advanced Clinical Practice.

On completion of the full MSc award professionals will have developed the ability to exercise autonomy and decision-making in a context of complexity, uncertainty, and varying levels of risk, holding accountability for decisions made. 

How do I become an Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP)?

In 2017 NHS England (formally Health Education England) published the Multi-professional Framework for Advanced Clinical Practice to ensure governance and consistency in the level of practice nationally.  Funded courses have been accredited to ensure Advanced Clinical Practice is standardised. 

If you are an experienced clinician established in Primary Care, you can apply for funding through us for the MSc ACP course at the University of Northampton. 

The MSc ACP has two intakes a year (September and February) and can be undertaken via an apprenticeship route. 

Apprenticeships combine real work with training and study for a specific role. The MSc ACP Apprenticeship means you’ll get a salary while gaining vital experience, knowledge and skills in the primary care environment. 

How do I become a First Contact Practioner (FCP)?

A FCP is a Master educated diagnostic clinician working in primary care at the top of their clinical scope of practice. The FCP once qualified can safely assess and manage undifferentiated and undiagnosed presentations in their specialism; occupational therapy, paramedic science, physiotherapy, dietetics or podiatry. 

The FCP focuses on the clinical pillar of expertise with the opportunity to progress into Advanced Practice. 

Prospective FCP learner can apply to one of the 8 NHSE procured education providers and can opt for a taught, portfolio or hybrid route to become qualified.