Tobacco Dependence Specialist

Service Provision Provide an evidence-based specialist smoking cessation service within the designated locality contributing to the achievement of the services stop smoking targets. Work with the Service Lead to arrange clinics, venues, and times in response to service specification priorities and to facilitate access to key target groups. Deliver one to one support to service users based on their needs carrying our comprehensive assessments of referred or self-referred clients and working with the client to plan and develop a smoking cessation programme which will meet the needs of the individual. In consultation with the service user, assess for and advise upon the most suitable pharmacological product and make a recommendation to the GP requesting an appropriate prescription if the service users choose a prescription only medicine. Where nicotine replace therapy is required, to facilitate the safe delivery of this product to the service user. Monitor the effects of the treatment programme and adjust as appropriate. Employ the use of carbon monoxide monitoring as a motivational and validation tool, understanding how to use it supportively and explain its use to service users. Plan, implement and evaluate smoking cessation groups in a variety of settings including primary care, community, and workplaces, arranging venues and times to respond to waiting times and caseload. Implement the theory of group processes in managing groups and adapt the framework and content of the session where necessary. Organise resources and appropriate information for service users. Communication & Relationship Skills To liaise with and empower patients to develop, implement and evaluate their own stop smoking plan, considering scientific evidence, NICE guidance, and the experiences of the individual patient. Following assessment of the patient, to provide tailored support and motivational interviewing to patients, to gain commitment to quit. To work within a framework of flexibility, acknowledging individual patient preferences and accommodating the needs of each individual patient. To educate and motivate patients in relation to tobacco control, particularly with respect to second-hand smoke and approaches to minimising risk. To develop and maintain effective communications and working relationships with all key smoking cessation and tobacco control partners. To liaise with and influence relevant health and other professionals to ensure that the service retains a high profile and acts as a key priority service for patients suffering from chronic disease. To continually promote the service, including distributing promotional literature, attendance at events and presentations to groups when requested. Knowledge, Training & Experience Extensive relevant knowledge of evidence-based information on smoking cessation approaches and methods. Attend bespoke training events as requires by the Trust, local Public Health and Commissioning authorities and management for career and continuous professional development. Participate in the delivery and organisation of smoking cessation training for new practitioners and other health and care professionals in line with agreed standards. Extensive knowledge of health-related behaviour change evidence. Responsible for continuous learning knowledge of smoking cessation using the National Centre for Smoking Cessation and Training (NCSCT) online training packages. Comply with statutory and mandatory requirements in line with Trust policy. Contribute and engage in service local induction programmes. Analytical, Monitoring & Evaluation Skills To meet measurable objectives including performance and quality standards in line with Trust procedures. Be responsible with your line manager for identifying appropriate personal development plans. Ensure that the service provided is monitored and evaluated in accordance with local, regional, and national guidelines and that mandatory data is submitted. Contribute to the audit cycle within Tobacco Dependency Treatment Services. Planning & Organisational Skills To support the planning, delivery and recording of an effective intervention that is matched to patient need. To ensure that a secure, confidential record system is maintained that allows prompt access to individual patients records when necessary. To liaise with staff within the hospital to ensure a timely and appropriate service of high quality is delivered according to demand, need and availability. To prioritise patients according to pre-set criteria, effectively establishing and managing own caseload. To be autonomous and responsible for assessing and agreeing patient requirements on a daily basis, including planning appropriate activities and products to meet those needs, considering own annual leave as well as seasonal fluctuations in demand. Support the implementation of specific and ad-hoc tobacco control events to link in with national and local campaigns. Clinical Governance To educate and discuss with patients the advantages and disadvantages of smoking cessation pharmaceutical products, aiding the patient to choose the product or products which best suit their lifestyle and health status. To keep up to date with the changing evidence base, relevant policy pronouncements including NICE guidance, clinical developments and changes as directed by management, to provide an effective, high quality, safe service for patients. To undertake diverse training as the opportunity arises to acquire the specialist skills needed to develop the role. To ensure all patient records are stored correctly and confidentially in accordance with Caldicott guidelines. To support flexible working practices, ensuring continuity of service provision during period of fluctuating demand. To be accountable for ensuring adherence to Trust systems and processes for monitoring and improving services, contributing to quality service improvement, safeguarding high standards of care, and enhancing the safety of service users and staff. Service Modernisation To liaise with NHS colleagues to ensure a streamlined system. To support the development of innovative approaches to increasing referrals to the service. To be an advocate for the community-based services across the Fylde Coast and respond appropriately to requests for information, and partnership working. To contribute to planning, implementation and evaluation of service developments as directed.