Update: As the project draws to a close, we have been very fortunate with the support we have had from dedicated people within the boards and funding from the Scottish Government. This dedication continues with training plans being piloted to deliver consistent Continual Profession Development across Scotland and to ensure that all our Assistant Practitioners and Radiographers are able to develop their skills to the same high standards they deliver their service. The increased numbers of reporting radiographers is very exciting and with the publication of Chest X-Ray report standards by the Royal College of Radiologists, this can only support our existing and qualifying reporting radiographers to deliver excellent patient outcomes.
Aim
The aim of the Advancing Practice project is to increase capacity of the radiology service through expanding and optimising the capability and expertise of Radiographers and Assistant Practitioners.
Objectives
- To assess the role of advanced and extended practice for Radiographers and Assistant Practitioners in addressing capacity issues in the Scottish Radiology service.
- To achieve a nationally agreed approach to the promotion and implementation of advancing practice across the Scottish Radiology service.
- To develop a workforce plan and roadmap for how to achieve an increase in the use of advancing practice in radiology in Scotland.
How
Conduct a cost benefit analysis to identify which areas of advancing practice should be developed and promoted to most effectively meet the needs of the radiology service both now and in the future.
Develop a Target Operating Model, workforce plan and roadmap to help understand what needs to be done in order to deliver a more resilient and sustainable service.
Identify and support some quick wins to grow the Assistant and Advanced Practitioner Radiographer workforce in the short to medium term.
Work closely with the Scottish Government and Higher Education Institutions to support Assistant Practitioner and Radiographer advanced practice training and education, as well as engaging with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure that Advancing Practice will support their local service and individual development needs.
Who
The project will include widespread engagement with those experiencing, referring and operating within radiology services in Scotland.
The project team managing the delivery of the Advancing Practice project includes:
- Clinical Lead – Simon McGurk
- Project Manager – Adam Pinner
- Project Support Officer – Jessie Russell