The effectiveness of clinical supervision groups in primary care

Rationale: Clinical supervision has often been identified as good practice, and a means of enhancing patient care, although there is a limited evidence base. This research investigates whether clinical supervision groups in primary care are effective. Aim and objectives: The aim of this study is to identify whether clinical supervision groups in primary care settings are effective in comparison with the literature and evidence. The objectives are to investigate whether group clinical supervision corresponds with Proctor's (1986) model. Secondly to identify characteristics of the supervisor which supervisees and supervisors prioritised. The third objective is whether clinical supervision groups place differing demands on the supervisor than individual clinical supervision, and to make any recommendations which the research identified. Methodology: A mixed-methods, three-phased approach was used. In Phase-I postal questionnaires were used to gather background information on staff who participated in clinical supervision groups. The second phase involved non-participant observations of two clinical supervision sessions each of three different groups. While in Phase-3 focus groups were carried out with two clinical supervision groups. Results: The participants in the research benefited most from clinical supervision which was predominantly restorative in accordance with Proctor's (1986) model. The supervisors lacked the skills necessary to manage clinical supervision groups. Both supervisees and supervisors regarded approachability and support as the most valued characteristics of the supervisor. While the supervisees valued the supervisors' knowledge more than the supervisors, who felt this was a characteristic which they lacked and did not prioritize. Conclusion: A model of clinical supervision is required focusing on the needs of more experienced practitioners. Clinical supervision of groups requires skills and training in clinical supervision and in managing groups.EThOS - Electronic Theses Online ServiceGBUnited Kingdo