Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust
A vacancy has arisen for a full-time Biomechanics Orthotics Technician. This post will be based in the Biomechanics department at Norwich Community Hospital, working with a team of Podiatrists and another Biomechanics Orthotics Technician. The successful applicant will manufacture a wide range of orthotic devices as part of the busy team. Previous experience in the field of manufacture of orthotics is not essential for this role but desirable. May be required to lead exercise and education group sessions and provide education and information on routine musculoskeletal conditions.
Main Duties of the Job
* To manufacture insoles and orthotic devices prescribed by MSK Foot and ankle clinicians within the Biomechanics laboratory.
* Manage orthotic production caseload and be able to work autonomously to prioritise team workload, individual jobs, and establish the most effective order and way of working.
* Fitting orthotics to patients, evaluating the fit, problem solving adjustments and implementing them when within scope of practice.
* Implementing routine packages of care associated with commonly treated conditions.
Job Responsibilities
* To provide a high standard of insole and orthotic manufacture through the development of specialised skills.
* Demonstrate dexterity and co-ordination including using equipment and fine tools.
* Be responsible for ensuring equipment is used safely, following appropriate training, and that it is maintained appropriately. e.g. band saws, grinding equipment, ovens, dust extraction equipment etc. To adhere to departmental policy including competence to use equipment and ensure safe use of equipment by others through teaching, training, and supervision of practice.
* Work predominantly independently on specified tasks and within the group or clinic settings, with regular clinical support and supervision by a qualified practitioner as required.
* Share responsibility for maintaining store cupboards, cleaning specialist equipment and general house-keeping tasks.
* To monitor the use of the appropriate materials throughout the stages of manufacturing each insole or orthotic and maintaining the finished item will be fit for its purpose.
* To provide spontaneous and planned advice and instruction to MSK clinicians regarding the technical viability of prescriptions received for manufacture.
* To ensure unsatisfactory prescriptions are referred back to one of the prescribing MSK Clinicians in a timely manner.
* To work as required as a duty technician.
* To assist in the training of new or inexperienced technicians.
* To ensure adequate supplies through robust stock control, including ordering, receipt of goods, storage, and safe use.
* Work when needed in a variety of locations to meet the needs of the service.
* Fitting new orthotics, using assessment and fitting techniques with routine MSK Biomechanics conditions, working autonomously within clinical competencies. Able to recognise complex issues beyond scope and refer onwards to an appropriate clinician.
* May be required to lead exercise and education group sessions, for example, heel pain classes, assessing and adapting exercises to individual patients within competency, with access to regular clinical supervision from a qualified clinician.
* Provide education and information on routine MSK conditions such as osteoarthritis to patients and their carers when required.
* Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of consent, and gain consent as appropriate.
* To maintain clinical records in line with Trust Policy and Professional Standards.
* Establish and maintain appropriate working relationships with colleagues, patients, carers and other health care professionals.
Person Specification
Qualifications
* Experience and education to NVQ Level 3 or equivalent job skills standard demonstrating the ability to manage non-routine work.
* Good general education i.e., GCSEs or equivalent grade C or above in English and Maths.
* Experience of working in a healthcare environment.
* Experience of working within the NHS.
Skills
* Demonstration of manual dexterity work.
* Evidence of previous experience using cutting and grinding machinery.
* Competent use of IT.
* Self-directed learning.
* Ability to work independently.
* Previous experience working manufacturing bespoke products from prescriptions/ various instructions.
Communication
* Ability to communicate information to staff and patients.
* Able to communicate effectively using the English language in both verbal and written forms.
* Good interpersonal skills.
* Highly motivated.
Personal Attributes/Behaviours
* Able to identify with the Trust's commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults.
* An understanding of the Trust's visions and values.
* Professional appearance.
* Tact & diplomacy.
* Empathy & sensitivity.
Other
* Commitment to the specialty.
* Able to work flexibly to meet the needs of the service.
* Must hold a full driving licence valid in the UK or be able to make own travelling arrangements to fulfil the duties of the post.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust
Address
Biomechanics Clinic, Norwich Community Hospital, NR2 3TU
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