Have you ever wondered what it’s really like to be a Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP)? As the demand for Independent Prescriber training grows, more medical practitioners are taking on this rewarding role. Through extensive experience with DPPs in various settings, we’ve gained valuable insights into their daily experiences, challenges, and triumphs.
Morning Rounds and Teaching Moments
The day typically begins with ward rounds, where DPPs balance their clinical duties with training responsibilities. While conducting patient reviews, they’re accompanied by IP trainees, often pharmacists undertaking their prescribing qualification. This dual role requires careful management – ensuring patients receive optimal care while creating valuable learning opportunities.
The most effective approach is integrating teaching naturally into the clinical workflow. DPPs often engage trainees by asking them to consider treatment options before sharing professional insights. These real-time teaching moments are essential for developing clinical reasoning skills.
Clinical Supervision in Action
By mid-morning, supervision often shifts to outpatient clinics. Here, the teaching dynamic evolves as trainees progress through their learning journey. Initially, they observe consultations, but as their confidence grows, they take increasingly active roles under careful supervision. This progression is carefully managed to ensure both patient safety and trainee development.
Running clinics with a trainee requires careful time management. Many DPPs schedule slightly longer appointments when supervising IP students, allowing time for discussion and reflection without compromising patient care. This careful balance supports the development of clinical confidence while maintaining service standards.
Lunchtime Learning and Documentation
The lunch break often becomes an opportunity for focused teaching. DPPs typically use this time for case discussions, reviewing learning outcomes, or addressing specific questions that arose during morning sessions. It’s also when documentation gets updated – an essential aspect of the IP training process.
Structured documentation templates and guidance help both DPPs and trainees maintain comprehensive records of their learning journey. This organization is crucial for tracking progress and ensuring all competencies are adequately covered.
Afternoon Practical Sessions
Afternoons typically involve focused clinical skills teaching sessions. These practical elements are crucial for developing the hands-on skills needed for independent prescribing. Sessions may include practicing physical examinations, reviewing prescription charts, or conducting medication reviews – all fundamental components of IP training.
These dedicated afternoon sessions provide valuable opportunities to focus entirely on teaching. Trainees can explore different scenarios, practice techniques, and build confidence in a supportive environment without the time pressures of regular clinics.
End-of-Day Reflection and Planning
As the clinical day winds down, DPPs spend time reviewing progress with their trainees. This involves discussing challenging cases, providing feedback on prescribing decisions, and planning future learning opportunities. It’s also when they assess the trainee’s portfolio and plan upcoming supervised practice sessions.
The Rewards and Challenges of Being a DPP
Despite the additional responsibilities, the DPP role offers significant professional satisfaction. Watching a trainee develop from an observer to a confident prescriber is one of the most rewarding aspects of the role. It’s not just about teaching clinical skills – it’s about nurturing the next generation of prescribing professionals.
Balancing Clinical Work and Teaching
One of the most common concerns for potential DPPs is balancing clinical responsibilities with teaching duties. The key lies in good organization and support. Having structured frameworks for supervision and establishing clear boundaries and expectations from the start helps maintain this balance effectively.
Supporting Future DPPs
For medical practitioners considering becoming a DPP, various support systems are available to make the transition smoother. This includes orientation programs, ongoing support, and networks of experienced DPPs who can offer guidance and share best practices.
The future of pharmacy depends on skilled DPPs willing to share their expertise with the next generation of prescribers. With the right support and structure, the role can be both manageable and deeply rewarding.
Getting Started as a DPP
If you’re a medical practitioner interested in becoming a DPP, or a pharmacist looking for expert supervision for your IP training, consider reaching out to professional organizations that specialize in DPP training and support. MEDLRN can provide guidance on getting started and help ensure successful outcomes for both supervisors and trainees.
Together, we can ensure the next generation of independent prescribers receives the highest quality training and supervision, ultimately leading to better patient care and enhanced healthcare services.
