For locum doctors, collecting references can be the most frustrating and time-consuming process of working with locum agencies.
Currently the process is manual, paperwork-heavy and time-consuming for your referees to complete. It also has to be repeated every time you want to register with an agency.
This often results in delays starting work, or missing out on locum work altogether. And we know that you can feel embarrassed about pestering the same Consultants multiple times for references.
We're excited to solve these problems with OneRef - our new online referencing service that allows you to quickly and securely obtain a reference from referees, which can be used across all agencies on Messly.
OneRef streamlines the process of reference collection so you can focus on starting work as quickly as possible.
The service will be live from May 30th on Messly.
Why are Messly launching a reference service?
We've launched OneRef in response to your feedback. We hear time and time again how time-consuming and frustrating the process of collecting references can be be when locuming.
One of the biggest frustrations we've heard is having to ask for references multiple times from your referee and having to chase up your seniors for references that haven't been completed.
We've seen that this can a significant barrier to starting locum work or working with a new agency on Messly.
OneRef aims to simplify the referencing process, saving doctors' valuable time, reducing paperwork, and ensuring the secure, efficient sharing of references with agencies on Messly.
How does the service work?
There are 3 key steps:
Add Referees: You will add your referees onto Messly as usual, from within Docs. Agencies will need a reference history of up to 3 years to comply with NHS requirements. You'll be able to see any gaps in your reference history on your new reference timeline. Agencies will check this information and give you feedback if there are any issues - you can then update this information on Messly.
Reference Completion: Your referee will be asked to complete an online reference form on Messly when the first agency requests a reference on Messly. This form can be completed on their computer or phone and takes just a few minutes.
Reference Sharing: This completed reference form is stored on Messly and shared with locum agencies who request it. Your referee simply needs to approve the reference request when a new request is made by an agency. The completed reference is then securely shared by email and is fully-compliant with NHS framework requirements. You'll be able to see a copy of the reference on Messly.
How does this save time for my referees?
Firstly, they only need to complete the reference form once. Currently each locum agency has their own form and the referee needs to complete each separately, but with OneRef that only happens once.
Secondly, we have digitised the whole process. Agencies will typically send a document to be printed, completed and signed in pen, then scanned and emailed back to them. With OneRef, Consultants complete the information online (much of which we pre-populate for them), then sign and send digitally.
We've tested this out, and it turns a 10-15 minute task into a 2 minute task for them.
Will agencies contact my referees without permission?
With OneRef, agencies have no need to contact your referees directly, and so you don't need to share your referees contact details with them. If they ask you can politely refuse and explain that you are using the OneRef service.
Will all agencies on Messly support OneRef?
All locum agencies using Messly are using the OneRef service.
What happens to my references before OneRef is launched?
Until OneRef is launched, references will processed in the usual way, depending on the policies and procedures of the specific agencies you're working with. If you'd rather agencies wait to request your references through our OneRef service, you can request them to do so.
What do I do if I have more questions?
If you have more questions please contact us via Whatsapp on +44 7719 721347 or by emailing support@messly.co.uk