ARRS Clinicians

Under the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS), GP practices work as part of wider teams made up of different roles. You may be offered an appointment or contact with someone other than a GP.

This section explains what those roles usually mean, and why you might be offered them.

Physician Associate

What this usually means: medical assessment with GP oversight

Physician associates are trained clinicians who work alongside GPs.

They can:

• Assess symptoms
• Take medical histories
• Discuss treatment options
• Arrange tests, depending on local arrangements

They work under GP supervision and involve a GP when needed.

Clinical Pharmacist

What this usually means: help with medicines

A clinical pharmacist focuses on medicines and how they are used.

They commonly help with:

• Repeat prescriptions
• Reviewing long-term medication
• Side effects or interactions
• Questions about how or when to take medicines

If your concern is mainly about medication, this is often the most appropriate person to see.

Pharmacy Technician

What this usually means: supporting with medicines and prescriptions

Pharmacy technicians work across local PCNs to help manage and organise medicines safely and efficiently.

They can help with:

• Updating and checking repeat prescriptions
• Making sure your medication records are accurate
• Supporting with general medication queries

They work closely with clinical pharmacists and GPs. While they do not prescribe medicines, they play an important role in making sure your care runs smoothly.

First Contact Physiotherapist

What this usually means: bone, joint or muscle problems

A first contact physiotherapist specialises in movement and pain related to muscles and joints.

They usually see people with:

• Back, neck or shoulder pain
• Joint problems
• Pain affecting movement or daily activities

You do not need to see a GP first for these issues. They can assess you, offer treatment or exercises, and arrange further care if needed.

Social Prescribing Link Worker

What this usually means: support with non-medical issues

A social prescribing link worker helps with things that affect health but are not medical.

This can include:

• Loneliness or isolation
• Housing, work or money-related stress
• Finding local community support or activities

They spend time listening and helping you access practical support outside healthcare.

Nutritional Therapist

What this usually means: supporting with diet and lifestyle

A nutritional therapist works to support patients to make practical changes to their diet and lifestyle.

They can help with:

• Improving eating habits and nutrition
• Supporting weight management
• Managing diet-related health concerns
• Building healthier day-to-day routines

They focus on helping you make realistic, sustainable changes that fit into your daily life.

Care Coordinator

What this usually means: help organising care, not clinical advice

Care coordinators in PCNs are administrative roles, not clinicians.

They help with things like:

• Booking or chasing appointments
• Helping services work more smoothly together
• Acting as a point of contact for ongoing care

They do not diagnose or treat medical conditions.