The GP Awards 2025 shortlist: Bosvena Health Nursing Team

The Bosvena Health Nursing Team in Cornwall have found good results from a coordinated approach to wound care. This is the next article exploring the Nursing Award shortlist ahead of this year’s General Practice Awards ceremony, taking place on 5 December at the Novotel London West in Hammersmith.

Starting out with two separate teams and different approaches to wound care, Bosvena Health had its work cut out in creating a joined-up service. But the unified group has risen to the challenge, delivering faster healing times, more consistent treatment, and greater collaboration across the practice.

The project began after the merger of two surgeries. ‘At one point, we were a really large team – around 18 members,’ explains nursing associate Sara Swales. ‘Everyone had slightly different approaches to wound care.’

To bring consistency, the team worked together to create a unified protocol, using guidance from the National Wound Care Strategy Programme. Dedicated wound clinics were introduced on set days, and six nurses now form a specialised dressing team.

Healing rates have improved dramatically, and patients are receiving more joined-up care. According to Ms Swales, most wounds are now healing within six weeks. ‘Before, we had patients who were being seen for up to 12 months or more,’ she adds.

Monthly multidisciplinary meetings – attended by a GP and the practice manager – allow the team to review complex cases, while a newly appointed tissue viability link nurse keeps the team updated on best practice.

The team has also been selected to pilot nurse-led referrals to vascular services in the South West – a development Ms Swales describes as ‘a great achievement in itself’.

She observes: ‘A lot has changed in the last 12 months. We’ve really come together as a team and are working so much better together – for each other and for our patients.’

The changes have improved efficiency as well as care. Structured clinics have streamlined booking, reduced pressure on GP appointments, and lowered the use of dressings and equipment – cutting costs and reducing waste.

‘When the merge first happened, we had patients who had been receiving wound care for over two years, with little progress – often because different nurses were using different approaches,’ Ms Swales explains.

‘Once we implemented the protocol, that all changed. We’re now seeing consistent care and far better outcomes.’

The award shortlisting marks a milestone for a team that has come a long way.

‘When the teams first merged, there was a lot of knocking heads, and we never thought it would settle down and we’d all be able to work together as a team, but we have,’ Ms Swales insists.

‘We look after one another now, we’ve built something solid, and we’ve worked really hard. Winning would be a really proud moment for all of us.’

This is one of 7 nurses or nursing teams shortlisted at the General Practice Awards. The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony on Friday 5 December at the Novotel London West. If you’d like to be there on the night you can find out more here and book tickets here.

The GP Awards 2025 shortlist: Bosvena Health Nursing Team

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