A GP's Guide to Online Resources and Efficiency
In this blog, I want to share a treasure trove of online resources that I use day in and day out as a GP. But that's not all; I'll also reveal a smart way to access them swiftly using bookmarks in your preferred internet browser, be it Google Chrome or Internet Explorer. And if you stick around till the end, I'll even show you how to have all these resources ready and loaded as soon as you fire up your browser. Let's dive right in!
The Key to Efficiency
Efficiency is the name of the game in healthcare. Having the right tools at your fingertips, ready to go, is vital, regardless of your medical specialty. Just like a surgeon wouldn't want to rummage through a drawer full of instruments (which, I'm told, includes "metal bits"), GPs need their tools neatly laid out, unwrapped, and sparkling clean before the first patient arrives.
Resources at Your Fingertips
Let's begin by discussing the first set of resources that are indispensable for GPs. I'll walk you through how to set up bookmarks so that these resources are easily accessible.
1. Medicines Complete (BNF)
This is the British National Formulary, and it's your go-to for medication information, including doses and more.
2. Clinical Knowledge Summaries (CKS)
CKS compiles Nice guidelines in a summarized format. It's an incredibly handy resource for GPs, covering a wide range of topics.
3. Update Courses
Consider attending an update course like Red Whale or NB Medical for continuous learning and easy CPD points for appraisals.
Creating Bookmarks
Now that we've discussed these valuable resources, let me show you how to set up bookmarks for quick access.
1. Click on the tab you want to add.
2. On the right-hand side, click the three dots.
3. Go to "Bookmarks."
4. Choose "Bookmark this tab."
5. Done!
To see your bookmarks in Chrome, click on "Show bookmarks bar" in the same menu. This makes accessing your resources even faster.
Resources at Your Fingertips - Part 2
Let's explore another set of resources that can enhance your practice. These bookmarks will save you time and provide valuable information for patient care.
4. Versus Arthritis - Back Pain Information
This patient information leaflet on back pain from Versus Arthritis is a fantastic resource for both you and your patients.
5. Cancer Maps
Cancer Maps, as I've discussed in a dedicated video, are an invaluable tool for navigating cancer criteria efficiently.
6. BMJ Best Practice
BMJ Best Practice is currently free for all NHS staff. It's a comprehensive resource with a secondary care approach.
7. British Hypertension Society Blood Pressure Diary
This home blood pressure diary is an excellent resource for tracking and diagnosing hypertension.
8. HRT Formulary Options
The HRT Formulary Options features a helpful flowchart for making informed decisions about hormone replacement therapy.
9. GtripleNG Medicines Management Group
For antibiotic guidelines, this resource is a gem, offering regular updates to ensure you're following the latest recommendations.
10. Sleep Hygiene Leaflet
A concise one-page leaflet on sleep hygiene from Australia can be a helpful resource for patients struggling with sleep.
11. NHS Mood Zone
Given the growing importance of mental health, the NHS Mood Zone is a valuable resource to guide patients to appropriate support.
Bonus: Loading All Tabs at Startup
Here's a bonus tip! You can have all your essential tabs automatically load when you start your browser.
- In Chrome, go to "Settings" > "On startup" > "Open specific page or set of pages" > "Use current pages."
- In Internet Explorer, go to "Settings" > "Internet Options" > "Start with tabs from the last session."
With this setup, your tabs are ready and waiting every time you open your browser.
Join the Conversation
To make this resource-sharing endeavor even more beneficial, I encourage you to join the conversation. Share your favorite resources in the comments so that we can build a valuable database to help our fellow healthcare professionals.
Conclusion
Efficiency in healthcare is crucial, and having quick access to the right resources can make a significant difference in your practice. If you found this information helpful or have any questions, please share your thoughts in the comments. If you'd like to see more content like this, don't forget to subscribe. Best of luck in your medical practice, and may these shortcuts and resources make your life a little easier and more efficient.
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