NSHCS independent review response

The National School of Healthcare Science (NSHCS) manages the training and development of healthcare scientists across over 40 specialties, from apprenticeships to consultant roles. Its pioneering programmes aim to improve patient outcomes and promote multi-professional collaboration.

At the recent Education and Training meeting, LabMed submitted a response to the ongoing independent review of the NSHCS.

Read the full review

NSHCS Independent Review – written evidence submission

 

Review summary

KATIE HADFIELD
Director of education, training and workforce

Adapting the HCS Workforce for NHS strategic shifts

As the NHS shifts towards community-based care, point-of-care (POC) testing is expected to expand significantly. Many POC teams, however, face staffing and resource challenges that hinder service growth and adaptation to new technologies. It is essential that POC be recognised as a distinct discipline, supported by multidisciplinary teams. The Healthcare Science (HCS) workforce should be equipped with data interpretation, coding, and AI/machine learning skills to promote the digital transformation in healthcare. Key recommendations include:

  • Training opportunities for HCS across all disciplines to become experts in this field
  • Providing baseline practical knowledge across the HCS workforce.
  • Promoting knowledge-sharing, process standardisation, and collaboration with stakeholders like academic institutions, industry partners and the NHS 

Enhancing education and training through the NSHCS

The NSHCS, in collaboration with stakeholders, can ensure high-quality education by addressing current gaps and anticipating future NHS needs. Suggestions include:

  • Incorporating POC testing governance and leadership into the STP and HSST curricula.
  • Expanding digital/data skills training beyond formal programmes to benefit all HCS disciplines.
  • Strengthening partnerships with professional bodies to ensure training remains relevant.
  • Equipping STP and HSST with foundational skills for expanded roles, such as non-medical prescribing.

Developing programmes and equivalence pathways

To enhance the effectiveness of its programmes, the NSHCS should:

  • Foster a stronger voice for trainers and employers to update content and assessments.
  • Offer flexible delivery options, such as virtual placements, to accommodate diverse trainee needs.
  • Formally recognise the equivalence process as a valid registration route and provide accessible resources for those pursuing equivalence.

Supporting small, specialist HCS disciplines

As well as aforementioned inequalities in training and education accessibility, smaller HCS specialties face consultant shortages and recruitment challenges.
The NSHCS could centralise funding for HSST posts in high-risk areas, following the STP model, to safeguard these disciplines. Addressing high attrition rates from the HSST programme is critical to ensuring long-term workforce sustainability.

Improving collaboration with education providers

The NSHCS should work with higher and  further education partners to optimise academic provision. Increasing virtual teaching greater efficiency in planning
in-person sessions could reduce travel burdens and financial strain on trainees. Additionally, reviewing STP study budgets is essential to ensure trainees can afford accommodation, travel and further educational opportunities without inequality.