Political Leadership in Primary Care

In an effective general practice the right degree of political input and leadership should result in excellent teamwork and patient care. Teamwork is important in general practice as it encourages the input of different viewpoints and perspectives, provides a wider network of professional support and a greater breadth of past experience to draw upon. For those in a leadership position it is valuable to know about each individual’s life experience and professional qualifications in order to ensure that their skills are being used effectively within the team. The team must be well coordinated and structured in order to create a good “care pathway”. The leaders within the practice are therefore responsible for creating an environment which encourages communication and inter-professional relationships. General Practice Nurses may often be a part of this process, especially as they become more senior. It is important that the policies in place within the practice reflect these ideas in order to produce higher levels of care and a positive working environment.