Primary Care Healthcare Assistant of the Quarter Announced

The HCA Academy Recognises Excellence in Mid and South Essex.

A Healthcare Assistant working in Primary Care has been named HCA of the Quarter by The HCA Academy, marking the first time a member of staff from a Primary Care Network (PCN) has been recognised through the scheme. This milestone represents the expanding reach of the Academy, which aims to support, retain, and celebrate Healthcare Assistants across Essex.

Tracey Crawford, a dual-role team member at her local GP surgery, has been recognised for her outstanding commitment to patient care and the flexibility she brings to her practice. Tracey, who began her journey as a part-time receptionist, has grown into a vital presence at her surgery, now working five days a week and serving as both a receptionist and a Healthcare Assistant (HCA).

The HCA Academy, part of the wider Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System, was launched in July 2024 and has already begun to shine a spotlight on the vital work of HCAs across a range of care settings. The inclusion of Primary Care in its recognition programme underlines the value of support roles within GP practices and the impact of their hard work on our patients.

Julie Harper, Practice Manager, shared her appreciation for Tracey’s impact on the service:

“One of the things that’s great about Tracey having a dual role as a receptionist and an HCA is the flexibility she brings to the surgery. If a patient comes in needing a blood test, she’s able to do it immediately. She consistently goes above and beyond to help her patients, and her dedication makes a real difference to both colleagues and the local community.”

Tracey herself expressed pride in both the recognition and the journey she’s taken within the NHS:

“It’s not often someone can say they love their job – but I do. I love the dual role, I love my patients, and they all know me by my first name. To have started as a receptionist working three days a week and now be working full-time as both a receptionist and HCA, I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved. It’s always a team effort, and I know I’ve got Julie and the rest of the team behind me every step of the way.”

The HCA Academy continues to celebrate the dedication and passion of HCAs across Essex, with further recognition events and development opportunities planned throughout the year. This award marks a significant step in acknowledging the contribution of HCAs within Primary Care, and the Academy looks forward to expanding its support for these essential roles.

Published: Jul 22, 2025