We are seeking an experienced and motivated Remote General Practitioner (GP) to support our Reception Healthcare Team for individuals entering the prison estate. This remote role is essential in delivering timely clinical assessments and treatment plans, with a focus on substance misuse management, acute care, and chronic disease review during the critical first days of custody.
This is a unique opportunity to work in a remote capacity while contributing to safer custody and improved health outcomes for a high-risk population. You will need to hold RCGP Part 1 & Part 2 in Substance Misuse, with proven experience in managing opioid dependence, alcohol detox pathways, and broader addiction medicine.
Main duties of the job
Provide remote clinical input for newly received prisoners, including:
- Initial health assessments
- Substance misuse triage and prescribing decisions
- Risk assessment (e.g., suicide and self-harm, alcohol withdrawal)
- Review of medications and prescribing needs
Deliver evidence-based treatment plans, including initiation and continuation of opiate substitution therapy (OST) and alcohol detox regimes.
Liaise with on-site multidisciplinary teams (nurses, mental health, pharmacy, and security staff) to ensure seamless care planning.
Ensure safe prescribing practices in accordance with prison protocols, NICE guidelines, and substance misuse best practice.
Document all consultations clearly and accurately in the electronic clinical record system (SystmOne or equivalent).
Participate in virtual team meetings, clinical handovers, and regular governance reviews.
Contribute to safeguarding, continuity of care, and reducing reoffending through high-quality healthcare delivery.
About us
- DrPA has been operating in secure environments since 2014 providing General Practitioner services. We deliver our services based on our ethos of CARE:
- Compassionate care that is trauma informed and supportive
- Assurance that care is evidence-based & demonstrates high quality outcomes for our patients
- Respectful of peoples cultural and religious beliefs
- Equitable care that is in line with the community services
We pride ourselves on ensuring our employees have a balanced work-life, but ensuring ample support staff and a clear desk policy.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide remote clinical input for newly received prisoners, including:
- Initial health assessments
- Substance misuse triage and prescribing decisions
- Risk assessment (e.g., suicide and self-harm, alcohol withdrawal)
- Review of medications and prescribing needs
- Deliver evidence-based treatment plans, including initiation and continuation of opiate substitution therapy (OST) and alcohol detox regimes.
- Liaise with on-site multidisciplinary teams (nurses, mental health, pharmacy, and security staff) to ensure seamless care planning.
- Ensure safe prescribing practices in accordance with prison protocols, NICE guidelines, and substance misuse best practice.
- Document all consultations clearly and accurately in the electronic clinical record system (SystmOne or equivalent).
- Participate in virtual team meetings, clinical handovers, and regular governance reviews.
- Contribute to safeguarding, continuity of care, and reducing reoffending through high-quality healthcare delivery.
Requirements
Essential:
- Fully qualified GP with current GMC registration and licence to practise.
- Completion of RCGP Part 1 & Part 2 in Substance Misuse (or equivalent recognised training).
- Strong clinical background in addiction medicine, mental health, or complex primary care.
- Previous experience working with vulnerable or marginalised populations.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively as part of a virtual multidisciplinary team.
- Access to secure, confidential workspace and high-speed internet connection for remote work.
Desirable:
- Previous experience in prison healthcare, secure settings, or liaison/diversion services.
- Understanding of prescribing governance and patient safety in custody.
- Familiarity with prison IT systems such as SystmOne, or willingness to train.
Person Specification
Qualifications
- GMC Registered as a GP
- Substance Misuse Part 1 & Part 2 (RCGP)
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
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