The Royal College of GPs (RCGP) has endorsed a framework aimed at increasing awareness and confidence in the treatment of gambling harm. The framework focuses on providing professional competencies, equipping practitioners with knowledge and skills, and offering educational and training programs.
Dr. Jane Rigbye, prevention director at GambleAware, emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach within the primary care network to prevent and assist those affected by gambling harm. She mentions the National Gambling Treatment Service as a resource for healthcare professionals to direct patients in need of help or support.
The Competency Framework, developed with support from the Royal College of General Practitioners, aims to ensure a clear understanding of gambling harms among healthcare professionals. It was produced in consultation with organizations such as the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the Gambling Health Alliance, and the Primary Care Gambling Service.
GambleAware also launched an interactive maps initiative to identify the demand for gambling harm treatment. Dr. Victoria Tzortziou-Brown OBE, joint honorary secretary of RCGP, highlights the hidden nature of gambling problems and expresses the framework’s potential to bring these issues to light and provide necessary help to patients.
Additionally, the Young Gamers & Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) has introduced a training program on gambling addictions for healthcare professionals, including general practitioners.
