Job Description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced, dynamic and forward-thinking experienced ACP in paediatric ophthalmology to take forward and develop the Orthoptic and Ophthalmology services at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust. We are looking to appoint a suitably qualified Orthoptist to work as a qualified ACP at Band 8a level. You will use specialist advanced knowledge and skill to deliver independent assessment, clinal examination, diagnosis, clinical decision making and planning of care and treatment, health promotion and safe admission and discharge of patients. You will work alongside the Consultant Paediatric Ophthalmologist, taking sole care for a diverse group of patients attending the eye clinic across Frimley Health. The ophthalmology service is across multiple sites and comprises of a variety of busy outpatients, orthoptic service, pre op assessment, dedicated ophthalmology operating theatres, laser.



The post holder will also work closely with the Senior clinical team, Service Managers, Ophthalmology Consultants and multidisciplinary ophthalmic team to ensure a consistent high level of care is delivered across the service to a deliver world class standards of patient care and experience. Excellent communication and organisational skills are essential, with the ability to motivate others, to identify innovative ways of working and enact positive change.



The ACP role is a cutting-edge role in the field of advanced clinical practice which crosses professional boundaries, undertaking traditional medical roles and leading inter-professional practice. It is a role model of excellence in the delivery of holistic care to patients. The ACP will be able to assess and treat the many varied clinical cases; both acute and chronic. The post holder will provide clinical expertise for developing and enhancing the service, demonstrate advanced skills and competencies and ensure that evidence-based practice is inherent in all aspects of care and treatment. The post holder will demonstrate critical thinking in the safe clinical decision-making process and is required to deliver an advanced level of clinical practice within the field of speciality care. Working within local and nationally agreed protocols and guidelines, the ACP demonstrates the knowledge and skills across the Four Pillars of Advanced Practice. The ACP exercises independent judgement to assess, investigate, diagnose, plan, implement and evaluate the clinical care and management of patients. The ACP will support service delivery and leadership working alongside colleagues in support of the education and development of both nursing, midwifery, allied health professional (AHP) and medical colleagues.



Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust is committed to being an inclusive and disability confident employer and has been awarded the Gold for the Armed Forces Employment Recognition Scheme. We provide first class development opportunities for all staff and have a wide range of professional, management and leadership, and clinical skills training available.



Here at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, we know how important it is to have a healthy work life balance; this benefits not only individuals but the patients we care for too.



We encourage applications from people who wish to work on a flexible basis, recognising that flexibility may mean a range of different working patterns and hours, we do our utmost to work with our staff to meet their needs and the needs of our service and its users.



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Main Responsibilities

1. Advanced Clinical Practice



Independently assess, investigate, diagnose, and manage patients with complex needs in line with professional scope of practice.



Undertake advanced procedures and clinical decision-making traditionally performed by medical practitioners, contributing to the continuity of care across settings.



Work within agreed protocols and frameworks, including local and national guidelines, to deliver safe, evidence-based care.



Lead on the coordination and management of care plans for patients in the specialty, ensuring effective communication and collaboration across teams.



Support and contribute to the ACP and Middle Grade medical rotas, acting as a senior expert clinician.



2. Collaborative Working



Build and maintain effective working relationships with nursing, midwifery, AHP, medical staff and the wider MDT to facilitate integrated patient care.



Engage in joint care planning and problem-solving, sharing expertise across professional groups.



Act as a link between clinical teams and management structures to ensure service needs are met effectively and efficiently.



3. Education and Training



Provide structured teaching, mentorship, and clinical supervision to a wide range of staff including junior medical colleagues, nursing, AHP, and student practitioners.



Promote inter-professional learning and foster an environment of continuous professional development.



Act as a role model for lifelong learning, contributing to the professional growth of the clinical workforce.



4. Leadership and Service Development



Contribute to the strategic development of clinical services within the specialty area.



Take an active role in service redesign and improvement initiatives in response to patient and organisational needs.



Act as a resource of advanced knowledge and skill, providing expert clinical advice and support across teams.



5. Research, Audit, and Quality Improvement



Lead and participate in clinical audits, service evaluations, and research projects.



Critically appraise and apply best available evidence to improve patient outcomes and support innovation in care delivery.



Initiate and contribute to the development, evaluation, and review of clinical guidelines, protocols, and care pathways.



Promote a culture of evidence-based practice across the multidisciplinary team.



6. Clinical Governance and Professional Standards



Promote and uphold the principles of clinical governance, quality assurance, and continuous improvement.



Adhere to and promote compliance with Trust policies, professional standards, and regulatory requirements.



Contribute to the delivery and evaluation of the Nursing/AHP Strategy and ensure alignment with the Trust's strategic objectives.



Participate in clinical risk management, incident reporting, and reflective practice to enhance patient safety and service quality.