Dr Stephen Deas is helping Trinity to build strong relationships with GPs
“GPs don’t usually deal with end of life issues on a day-to-day basis so our support can help them to feel more empowered and confident when needs arise,” says Dr Stephen Deas who, funded by the primary care trust, works two days a week providing practical help and advice to GPs in Wandsworth.
Stephen visits GP surgeries to promote the full range of Trinity’s services. He also helps them to communicate a positive message – that people shouldn’t be scared or think that a hospice referral means life is over. “An early referral means Trinity staff get time to know patients and their families and can help to improve their quality of life,” says Stephen.
He also makes sure GPs know they can contact Trinity’s community nurses for expert advice on symptom control and the practical and emotional difficulties that patients, families and carers often face when someone is very ill.
Another aspect to Stephen’s role is encouraging GPs to identify patients with end of life care needs and plan ahead. This means keeping a register and completing advance care plans so that the preferences of individual patients are understood and recorded.
As a GP himself for 30 years, Stephen understands the daily pressures doctors face. He describes himself as a facilitator, updating GPs on how best to manage end life care needs at home. “Everyone needs a bit of support from time to time,” he says.
More about:
Trinity’s education and support
