Our work programme
AF pilot programme in Corby
In order to help us evaluate the impact of the AF programme multi-faceted approach and the joint working process, a project was piloted in Corby, Northamptonshire, where we worked with NHS Corby Clinical Commissioning Group, with five practices covering a population of 62,000.
What did we do in Corby?
To direct and manage all aspects of the Corby pilot, a 
local implementation group was convened. This group oversaw the development and implementation of the pilot activity, which:
1. Developed a new AF management pathway document for GPs, together with a local protocol for the use of Warfarin and the implementation of recently published NICE guidance on the usage of new anticoagulation agents. These documents have been developed with input from and consultation with clinical leads across the East Midlands.
2. In recognition of the need for clearer clinical understanding around diagnosis and ongoing management of patients with AF, the local project team delivered a training event to primary care clinicians to coincide with the introduction of and assist with the implementation of new AF QOF indicators.
3. Two specialist AF nurses were seconded to the project to work with the five surgeries to support download of GRASP-AF and training on its use, identification and, stratification of patients on AF registers - followed by systematic treatment and management review of all patients identified as requiring further intervention. The nurses also provided one-to-one peer mentorship for practice staff to facilitate further learning and development.
4. Prevalence of AF in Corby is lower than expected which suggests that there may be a number of people in the area with AF but who are unaware of their condition. A public awareness campaign, Know Your Pulse, was developed in partnership with the AFA, NHS Corby CCG, and Corby Borough Council, and took place during July 2012. It raised awareness of AF in the general public, encouraged the at risk population to take their pulse, and where necessary encouraged patients to attend their GP practice.
Know Your Pulse websiteKnow Your Pulse campaign posterKnow Your Pulse check guideKnow Your Pulse factsheetKnow Your Pulse Corby launch press release
What next?
Organisations wishing to know more about support available to implement this project should contact Jan Balmer, Programme Manager, at
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