What is a PCN?
A Primary Care Network (PCN) is a collaborative group of general practices working together within a defined local area to improve the health and well-being of their community.
St Helens South Primary Care Network (PCN), like many other networks across the UK, plays a pivotal role in delivering the NHS Long Term Plan by fostering a collaborative network of general practices. Our PCN encompasses 10 GP practices serving an extensive community, aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality for approximately 30,000 to 50,000 local patients.
At St Helens South PCN, we are committed to developing healthcare services tailored to the unique needs of our community. This development is made possible through the collective efforts of local GP practices working in unison, not only among themselves but also with an array of health and social organisations. These include partnerships with governmental bodies, private sector entities, and charitable organisations, all united in their goal to improve community health outcomes.
Our network is staffed by a diverse group of healthcare professionals. This includes general practitioners, practice nurses, paramedics, pharmacists, occupational health, and care coordinators. Additionally, our PCN is enriched by funding for new and innovative roles such as first contact physiotherapists, social prescribers, health coaches, and physician assistants.
The collaborative team extends beyond the immediate medical staff to include district nurses, and Allied Health Professionals like physiotherapists and podiatrists/chiropodists. Together with social care providers and voluntary sector participants, our network ensures a comprehensive, integrated approach to health and wellness, directly addressing the needs and improving the lives of those in our community.