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Writer's pictureAbdul Fahad

ARRS Funding vs. Locum Staff: Which is the Better Option for Your Practice?

ARRS Funding vs Locum Staff - TMMT

With primary care practices facing increasing demands and limited resources, the decision between ARRS-funded roles and locum staff has never been more pivotal. Recent data shows that many practices are re-evaluating staffing strategies to improve efficiency and patient care. This highlights the urgency for practices to make informed choices that will shape their future success.


This blog explores the critical differences between ARRS funding and locum staff, exploring how each option affects practice dynamics, patient continuity, and financial outcomes. By understanding these staffing models' unique benefits and challenges, you can strategically position your practice to thrive in a rapidly changing healthcare environment. 


Find out which path aligns with your goals and ensures the best patient and team outcomes.


Key Takeaways


What is ARRS?

The Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) is a strategic initiative by the NHS designed to enhance primary care by funding various roles. These roles include clinical pharmacists, physician associates, and first-contact physiotherapists, among others. 


The aim is to improve patient care by integrating specialised professionals into practice teams, thereby reducing the workload on GPs and enhancing service delivery.


Benefits of ARRS-Funded Roles

ARRS-funded positions offer several advantages:


  • Continuity of Care: Permanent roles ensure patients receive consistent care from familiar healthcare professionals, fostering trust and improving health outcomes.

  • Team Integration: ARRS staff become integral practice team members, contributing to a cohesive work environment and facilitating better communication and collaboration.

  • Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment in training and integration may be significant, ARRS roles can lead to long-term savings by reducing the need for temporary staff and improving practice efficiency.


The Role of Locum Staff


Flexibility and Availability

Locum staff are temporary professionals hired to fill short-term staffing gaps. They offer flexibility and can quickly solve sudden staff shortages or increased patient demand. 


This adaptability is particularly valuable during peak times or when permanent staff are unavailable due to leave or illness.


Challenges with Locum Staff

Despite their benefits, locum staff present several challenges:


  • Higher Costs: Locum staff often command higher hourly rates, which can strain practice budgets, especially if used frequently.

  • Disruption to Continuity: Frequent staff changes can disrupt patient care continuity, potentially affecting patient satisfaction and health outcomes.

  • Integration Issues: Locum staff may not fully integrate into the practice team, leading to communication gaps and a lack of cohesion.


Comparative Analysis


Efficiency and Continuity of Care

ARRS roles are designed to enhance practice efficiency by embedding specialised professionals within the team. This integration supports seamless patient care and allows GPs to focus on more complex cases. 


In contrast, while locum staff provide immediate relief, their temporary nature can lead to inconsistencies in patient care and workflow disruptions.


Cost Implications

When considering costs, practices must weigh the long-term benefits of ARRS roles against the short-term expenses of locum staff. ARRS funding covers a significant portion of the salary for these roles, making them a cost-effective option over time. 


Conversely, the higher rates for locum staff can quickly add up, especially if they are used frequently.


Practice Integration and Team Dynamics

ARRS-funded staff become part of the practice's core team, contributing to a stable and collaborative work environment. This integration enhances team dynamics and improves overall practice performance. 


Locum staff, while adaptable, may not have the same level of commitment or understanding of the practice's culture and processes, which can impact team cohesion.


Decision-Making Factors


Key Considerations

When deciding between ARRS-funded roles and locum staff, practices should consider the following factors:


  • Practice Needs: Assess your practice's specific needs, including patient demographics, service demand, and existing staff capabilities.

  • Financial Constraints: Evaluate your budget and financial resources to determine which option is more sustainable in the long term.

  • Strategic Goals: Align your staffing choice with the practice's strategic goals, such as improving patient care, expanding services, or enhancing team collaboration.


Evaluating Long-Term Goals

Consider the long-term implications of your staffing decision. ARRS roles offer stability and the potential for professional development, which can lead to improved patient care and staff satisfaction. 


Locum staff, while flexible, may not provide the same level of continuity or investment in the practice's future.


Conclusion

Choosing between ARRS funding and locum staff is a critical decision that can significantly impact your practice's success. By understanding each option's unique benefits and challenges, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your practice's goals and patient needs. 


Whether you prioritise continuity of care, cost-effectiveness, or team integration, the right staffing model can enhance your practice's efficiency and improve patient outcomes.


At The Medicines Management Team, our experienced leadership of advanced clinical practitioners and GPs is ready to support your practice or PCN. Let us help you deliver an efficient medicines management service, alleviating the pressures of primary care.



FAQs


How does ARRS funding work?

ARRS funding, or the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme, is an NHS initiative that provides financial support to primary care networks (PCNs) for hiring additional healthcare roles. 


This funding covers a significant portion of salaries for roles like clinical pharmacists and physician associates, aiming to enhance patient care and reduce GP workload. Practices apply for this funding through their PCN, which manages the allocation based on local needs.

Is it better to use a locum?

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