Trained workforce key to future-proofing the NHS

Trained workforce key to future-proofing the NHS

By Mark Hitchman, Managing Director at Canon Medical Systems UK 

As part of the Autumn Budget 2024, the government has allocated an extra £25.7 billion to the NHS over this year and next as it looks to reform the service and cut NHS waiting lists. To address the patient backlog, £1.5bn will be made available for new beds across the country, along with more capacity for over a million additional diagnostic tests, surgical hubs and diagnostic centres[1]. However, to achieve increased scanning capacity, this initiative must also address the workforce shortage. Whilst investing in advanced, AI-assisted technology can help improve efficiency, the full benefits will only be realised with a strong, trained workforce.

According to the NHS Long-Term Workforce Plan[2], the starting shortfall between demand and supply for NHS staff is approximately 150,000 full-time equivalents, a gap that is filled with temporary staffing. The plan, which acted as a major milestone for the NHS, is geared towards addressing the chronic staff shortages to meet future demand for healthcare, of which boosting education and training is a crucial element. But how does the NHS meet these commitments?

While education and training are key to future-proofing the NHS, workloads mean that staff need a flexible approach to maintaining and developing their skills – the absence of which is likely to have a detrimental impact on staff wellbeing. Working in a stressful environment, NHS staff across the country are suffering from burnout, with recent studies suggesting this is a rising trend, with one in two reporting ‘feeling very tired or drained’ most days or every day[3].

Increased patient intake, staff shortages and complex funding challenges are putting pressure on existing staff which, paradoxically, is further impacting the patient waiting list and leading to delays in diagnosis.

Investment in education and training is critical 

Training and development programmes are designed to empower professionals at all levels with the skills and tools which help to improve their knowledge and competencies, and in turn, their overall health and wellbeing. They are also fundamental for the effective retention and recruitment of healthcare staff, by ensuring the workforce remains engaged, motivated, and most importantly updated on the latest technology and skills required to deliver the best care for patients.

In June 2023, when setting out its plan to rebuild the NHS through training, retention and reform, NHS England identified that while the education and training pipeline has increased, growing by 25% since 2010, the number of staff trained has not kept pace with the demand for NHS services.[4]

Whilst being time-poor is a significant barrier to ongoing development for healthcare workers, there’s also an inconsistency in the allocation of budgets across hospitals and Trusts in England for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses. In some cases, this results in staff choosing to fund their own training to continue their professional development. This can prove challenging for healthcare professionals to maintain and acquire the necessary knowledge and skills needed to deliver safe and quality care.

To address these challenges, the 2024-27 NHS Education Funding Agreement[5] has been introduced across England to achieve a consistent, nationwide approach to the management of funding for education and training made available.  

How can training be delivered effectively and cost-efficiently?

E-learning platforms offer a convenient and accessible way for healthcare professionals to enhance their skills and knowledge, hosting a wealth of resources, including video content from clinicians, top tips on how to use medical equipment, as well as webinars on clinical areas of expertise. One of the most significant benefits of providing complimentary On-Demand and CPD-accredited training in the healthcare industry is their flexibility and accessibility.

Healthcare professionals often have busy schedules, and work irregular hours, making it challenging to attend traditional face-to-face courses or events. E-learning courses allow them the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, fitting training around their work and personal commitments. Ultimately, this can lead to improved patient care, increased job satisfaction, and career advancement opportunities.

To this end, NHS Trusts should seek partners that offer additional educational and clinical resources tailored to the needs of healthcare professionals.[6] The ‘Breast and Gynaecology Days’ webinar series, for example, is designed to be engaging for clinicians at all career stages, with specialists sharing practical insights on breast imaging and the value of a comprehensive multiparametric approach.

Education in practice

In-person training remains a huge part of healthcare education, where clinicians are given the opportunity to hone their practical skills and learn from experts, while promoting greater interaction and the opportunity to ask questions. Receiving hands-on practice and highly skilled support is a valued aspect of face-to-face courses – it helps to inspire confidence in newly developed skills, which can then be used clinically, for the benefit of both patients and colleagues. 

There is an increasing reliance on industry providers to help support healthcare providers’ educational programmes both face-to-face and online. The blended approach of e-learning with in-person training gives clinicians more flexibility over how and when they can access training, thereby making education more accessible and inclusive. For example, by partnering with the right equipment supplier, hospitals and Trusts could benefit from a mixture of lectures by faculty members, aimed at developing knowledge, and technology-focused workshops using the latest diagnostic imaging equipment.

Healthcare conferences and industry events, such as the UK Imaging & Oncology (UKIO)[7] Congress and the British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS)[8], also play a crucial role in facilitating knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration within the healthcare industry. With many offering complimentary access for healthcare professionals, congresses typically bring together a diverse range of industry experts including clinicians, researchers, and policymakers. From showcasing groundbreaking research into the latest advancements to discussing emerging trends and innovations, these events provide invaluable opportunities for professionals and organisations to stay informed and connected. In addition, many large providers are also on-stand to provide expert insights and offer interactive demonstrations designed to enhance knowledge of the latest practices.

Aside from the big industry conferences, there are also smaller face-to-face events, which are often considered more cost-effective for clinicians. These include events such as BSIR Annual Scientific Meeting[9] and BSCI Annual Scientific Meeting 2024[10].  Traditionally, corporate events have been held in large cities. However, rising travel costs due to inflation and labour shortages mean that regional events are becoming a more attractive option as they require less travel for attendees.

Upskilling the workforce for a brighter future

The importance of education in healthcare cannot be underestimated. It is hoped that the 2025 update of the NHS Long-Term Workforce Plan will be a significant step forward in addressing education and training concerns, ensuring clinicians work in a positive culture, with opportunities to develop their skills, and have the necessary support to manage the complex and often stressful working environment.

With the demand on diagnostics showing no signs of slowing down, addressing the barriers surrounding education and training for the medical imaging workforce, including radiographers, sonographers and clinicians, and making it more accessible, has never been more important. New treatments, diagnostic tools, healthcare policies and practices are evolving constantly, influenced by new technologies, regulations, health trends, and societal needs. By prioritising training and continuous education, healthcare professionals can stay abreast of these changes and adapt their practices accordingly, ensuring they apply the most current and effective practices in patient care. Continuing education is not just an option but a necessity for success and excellence, ultimately, leading to better outcomes for patients.

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