KUP

Key 15 – Skills Versatility and Cross Training

To achieve optimum flexibility a practice must be able to redeploy its staff at will. To allow this to happen staff must learn the skills within their own skill group. after learning this they should learn as many skills, as appropriate, as possible. A training program and a cross training board allows the process to be tracked. In addition staff should be rotated to allow them to have experience in the various roles.

Level 1

At level 1 there is no interest in skill versatility, The practice has experts who have either specialised, or specific knowledge on possessed by other members of staff. If that member of staff is absent the role they complete is either not completed to the same quality or not completed at all.

  • Ensure all staff understand the need for cross training and the practices commitment to them. Cross training makes staff more valuable.
  • SGA’s should adopt themes dealing with cross training.

Level 2

At level 2 cross skill training begins between job groups

  • Meetings are held to plan for skill enhancement.
  • SGA group leaders have stated to asked for help in overcoming the problems that cross training creates.
  • Protected time is used for cross training. Staff are keen to cross train as they understand the benefits it creates.
  • Create a cross training progress board. Place it where everyone can see it.
  • Create a training plan that facilitates diversification.

Level 3

At Level 3 cross training has been completed within the groups. For some specific items there are still some areas that require Specialists. However, in general, improvements in quick changeover systems should be completed smoothly.

  • Target the ability to adapt to change through inter-group training. The group understands the importance of diversification beyond the boundaries of their own groups. This is much more complicated and therefore specific strategies are needed.
  • Set a goal to be adaptable that will survive even if the practice processes completely change.
  • Rotate staff to allow them to master multiple skills. Target skills which enhance quick changeover systems
  • Target the ability to adapt change
  • Simplify tasks were ever possible to facilitate the learning multiple roles.

Level 4

At level 4 cross training programs have started and intertraining group activities have been completed.

  • The level of intergroup training is such that more staff can tackle larger problems that preciously would have restricted to those with specific roles and training.
  • Develop strategies for all imaginary scenarios where cross training would befit the goals of the practice.
  • Include as many groups as possible in intergroup training whilst keeping in mind clinical boundaries.
  • Visitors can see the level of cross training on the chart.
  • Further simplify processes, for all processes that can be simplified, to optimise cross training opportunities.

Level 5

At level 5 practice can redistribute it staff to the ever changing needs of the practice. Given the nature of General Practice this cannot be achieved across all groups. However for 100% of non clinical work staff can complete the work needed to meet the practices goals.