Orthopaedics Extended Scope Practitioner in Harlow

We are seeking a motivated and forward‑thinking Extended Scope Practitioner to join our innovative Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC) team. This is a developmental role, offering a structured pathway from Band 6 to Band 7 once agreed competencies are achieved, supported by senior clinicians and service leads. You will play a pivotal role in delivering high‑quality, patient‑centred care, managing acute and follow‑up fracture cases virtually, and working closely with orthopaedic consultants, plaster technicians, and nursing staff to ensure safe, efficient, and evidence‑based management.

As a Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC) Orthopaedic Practitioner, you will be responsible for the remote assessment, management, and ongoing clinical support of patients who present with acute musculoskeletal injuries. You will review digital referrals, clinical notes, radiology findings, and relevant imaging to determine safe and effective treatment pathways. By providing expert clinical judgement, you will help ensure patients receive timely guidance—whether through virtual follow‑up, self‑management advice, or onward referral to specialist clinics, physiotherapy, or emergency reassessment.

The role requires strong clinical reasoning, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work autonomously within professional boundaries. You will work closely with orthopaedic consultants, advanced practitioners/specialist nurses, plaster technicians, and administrative teams to streamline pathways and maintain high standards of safety and efficiency. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to modernised fracture care, reduce unnecessary face‑to‑face appointments, and enhance patient experience by delivering accessible, evidence‑based musculoskeletal management.

• To work autonomously, managing and ensuring smooth running of Virtual Fracture Clinics from preparing clinics well ahead to identify any gaps or issues such as lack of imaging.
• To be responsible for complete and accurate documentation including clinic letters.
• To triage referrals taking into account the nature of the referral information or lack of it and take responsibility for decision making on clinical prioritisation.
• To be responsible for appropriate referral of patients to other health professionals including orthopaedic consultants, physiotherapists, podiatrists, orthotists and other health and social care teams.
• To use highly advanced clinical reasoning skills to provide accurate diagnosis and prognosis of patient’s conditions, and advise patients and referring doctors regarding appropriate treatment options.
• To determine, organise or request further imaging or investigations (e.g., X‑ray, MRI) in line with competencies and protocols.
• To provide clinical support in running other clinics within the department.
• To provide advice to patients, GP’s, emergency department and employers on the appropriate time to return to work, sports and other activities.
• To ensure that up to‑date patient records and activity data are maintained in accordance with professional and Trust standards.
• To provide clinical advice or queries from Minor Injuries Unit or GP surgeries.

• Contribute proactively to the smooth running of the Virtual fracture clinics and plaster room, supporting efficient patient flow and the delivery of high‑quality care.
• Maintain respectful, clear, and effective communication with the multidisciplinary team, patients, and their families, ensuring information is conveyed compassionately and accurately.
• Adhere to all Trust policies, procedures, and professional standards, seeking clarification when required to support safe and effective practice.

• Promote and undertake specialist research, updating on knowledge to promote excellence in clinical practice.
• Participate in and be aware of other clinical research trials for patients.
• Contribute to audit and research within the specialty in collaboration with colleagues, developing action plans and disseminating information.
• Be familiar with current clinical research protocol issues and relevant treatment and procedures employed in the diagnosis and treatment within the speciality.
• Contribute to service development by participating in audits, quality improvement projects, and the evaluation of new techniques, equipment, or materials.
• Undertake any additional duties necessary to support service delivery, ensuring all work is completed under appropriate supervision and in line with Trust policies and professional standards.

• Use computer skills, i.e., accessing patient demographic details for inclusion in therapy referral records – attending training to update or enhance skills as required.
• Receive training on how to use plaster technician/orthopaedic modalities and equipment.
• Produce timely and accurate patient records.
• Keep accurate statistics of patient activity in line with the service policy.
• Be competent in the use of IT systems such as Alexhealth, Cerner, PACS, Loop, Datix, etc., within the workplace environment.

As a Disability Confident and equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.