At Medequip, our team of clinical advisors play a vital and integral role in day-to-day operations, using their knowledge and expertise in support of decision-making across a broad range of different circumstances. They work independently and as part of the local depots and national clinical team to support equipment queries and pathways, working together towards achieving best practice across the UK.
So what does it take to be a clinical advisor? There’s no hard and fast answer to that question, and there are many different routes into the role.
Combining knowledge, skills and experience
Many of our clinicians were already experts in equipment, having worked in social care and associated roles, managing complex cases in the community. However, the variety of our work and the day-to-day challenges we face demand innovation and creativity, which means a wide range of skills and aptitudes can be utilised.
We pride ourselves on the diversity of the Medequip team. Where the clinical background originates from will vary significantly, which only adds to the strength and impact of the input achieved. Our experienced clinical advisors come from many different backgrounds, including people who have worked in independent practice, in wheelchair services and in paediatric care, with a plethora of transferable skills.
We have two qualified nurses in the team, whose knowledge is vital in post because of the increasing prevalence of pressure care and other medical devices in local catalogues. In addition, we have just appointed our first physiotherapist as a clinical advisor, introducing a valuable additional breadth of knowledge in mobility aids, stand aids and even respiratory needs.
“This is why we use the term ‘clinical advisor’ and not ‘occupational therapist’ when we’re describing the role,” explained Fiona Wasdell-Bowyer, Head of Clinical Services and Safeguarding Lead for Medequip. “Equipment is such a vast field, it’s vital for us to have a true crossover of skills, including experience in reablement, rehabilitation and even discharge planning as a vital link between acute and social care.”
Commitment to the field of equipment
Medequip’s recent recruitment drive for clinical advisors has demonstrated interest in the role from a range of disciplines. Although occupational therapists form the backbone of the team, the focus on introducing additional skills has resulted in real diversification. “Not everyone who joins as a clinical advisor is necessarily fully formed initially,” explained Fiona. “Which is why we have a wraparound peer and team approach, sharing experience and understanding, identifying and meeting training needs.”
For Fiona, the common denominator is a real interest in equipment and the role it plays in improving lives. “We look to recruit clinical advisors who demonstrate a practical mind, enjoying problem solving and innovating, with the underlying skills and aptitude to learn about our equipment,” she explained.
“In addition, we enjoy great support from our valued suppliers helping to educate and upskill our team with new and developing technology. The equipment world is constantly changing, and there is always something more to learn.”
Medequip’s clinical advisors take on a leadership role in terms of responsibility and knowledge base, with involvement in contract and clinical meetings, panels and negotiations without losing the human touch, doing what they are trained to do, helping other prescribers and enjoying new challenges.
“Medequip’s clinical team now numbers 50 professionals, maybe not treading the traditional path of career progression away from clinical involvement and into management, but rather continuing to use their knowledge and experience in practical, day-to-day situations, helping people to live independently and better for longer,” added Fiona.