ARTP - 4 Countries of the UK Webinar 2025 Summary

England

Doctor Vicky Chalker – Deputy Chief Scientific Officer for England

NHS 10 Year Health Plan for England
Discussed opportunities for Healthcare Science (HCS) following the publication of the 10 year plan. This includes digital integration, community diagnostics, cross boundary working (to expand accessibility and equity) and sickness to prevention. Previous workforce plan had limited focus on HCS. There is now an opportunity for this to be reviewed and to drive forward workforce improvements for HCS’s, ensuring a workforce fit for the future. Looking at growth of the workforce but also at skills. Described the ‘5 big bets’ for HCS which were data, Artificial Intelligence, genomics, wearables and robotics. Finished with a call to action to highlight roles of HCS’s in the 10 year plan with a document to be published in the Spring 2026.

Dr Lizzie Hill - Senior Lecturer in Sleep Physiology at University of the West of England, Bristol

Graduate Diploma Level 7 (Sleep)
Presented the Post Graduate Certificate in Sleep Medicine. This is a fast track upskilling pathway for those looking to develop their sleep knowledge. Three cohorts to date with 19 graduates so far. 12 month programme with 5 full weeks of teaching and practical’s. This is followed by remote teaching for one afternoon per week for 20 weeks.

Matthew Burke - Trainee Respiratory Practitioner

Student Feedback – Respiratory Graduate Diploma Level 6
Discussed the respiratory graduate diploma from the perspective of a student. This is a fast track respiratory physiology programme for graduates. It includes a portfolio which is aligned to the ARTP practitioner portfolio. Matthew described his highlights which were the ability to study both respiratory and sleep physiology and to gain a qualification. Challenges included the workload, difficulty in learning and gaining competence at the same time, limited contact time with the University. Raised the importance of having a good supportive work based supervisor and good time management skills.

Lizz Grimwade – Deputy Network Director for Eastern Physiological Network

Physiological Science Networks
Described the role of physiological science networks which were established following the Richards review. They can be sued to deliver change, acting as a key enabler for enhancing change. Currently there are 7 networks across England. Remits include, improving services and outcomes for patients through improvements to recruitment, training, digitalisation, innovation, coordination of investment and sharing of best practice. These networks are supporting change for services. Lizz outlined some of the projects currently being delivered which include improving professional registration through funding equivalence, workflow analytics (to decrease Did Not Attend’s) and network wide procurement to decrease costs.

Scotland

Professor Catherine Ross, Chief Scientific Officer for Scotland

Healthcare Science Strategy in Scotland
Discussed opportunities to be considered for healthcare science in delivering service renewal in Scotland, involving the foundations for transformation, system integration and innovation and a renewed health and social care system. Two documents published to date under the Healthcare Science Strategy in Scotland – “Defining our Strategic Approach” and “Redefining our Workforce”. Described the 5 pillars under the strategic approach which include:

1. Education
2. Workforce
3. Quality, safety and assurance
4. Clinical leadership
5. Visibility and system leadership

Recent publication of the “Redefining our Workforce” has targeted improving visibility, aligning Healthcare Science with the Service Renewal Framework, highlighting the role of Healthcare Science in advancing the profession, digital transformation, personalised care and population health planning. For the first time there is now a single definition for Healthcare Science in Scotland, with professional groupings and roles that align with levels of scientific practice. Next steps were discussed for implementation of the most recent publication and service redesign, including a Short Life Working Group, national e-rostering project and communication directly with Health Boards. Recent announcement of ministerial instruction for all Health Boards in Scotland to employ a Scientific Director for the first time.

Sarah Smith, Healthcare Science Associate Director, NHS Education for Scotland

NHS Education for Scotland Education Framework
Discussed the scoping review and education review which led to the publication of the education review report. Scoping review highlighted challenges for HCS in Scotland which includes improving visibility, education infrastructure, support for learning, increased entry routes, education programme oversight, recognition of prior learning, end points for education and regulation. NHS Education for Scotland (NES) currently commissioning an education, skills and competencies framework for HCS for undergraduate and post graduate level. Framework will inform future development, standardise core skills and competencies, inform personal development and succession planning, assist workforce modelling and planning and provide a platform which HCS can develop into the future.

Development of framework is currently underway, and currently draft versions are with stakeholders for physiological sciences. All professional groupings are due to be completed by the end of February with next steps to follow which include digital launch of the framework, gap analysis of education provision in Scotland and development of education provision.

Patrick Jamieson, Chief Respiratory Physiologist, NHS Lanarkshire

Consultant Healthcare Scientist Roles in Scotland
Discussed service need to look at transformation of roles in Healthcare Science in NHS Lanarkshire due to increase in referral demand and patient waits. Scoping exercise identified individuals already undertaking Scientist-led roles within service which has led to creation of a patient pathway which has evidenced better patient outcomes, reduced waits and significant reduction in cost associated with delivery of Scientist-led sleep service vs Medically-led service. Next steps involve discussions associated with clinical governance around the model and discussions with other Health Board areas where Consultant Healthcare Scientist roles are emerging.

Sara McArthur, Head of Respiratory Physiology, NHS Lothian

Education Training Model Update
Discussed previous education models and associated challenges (main challenges are time to train new workforce and lack of recognition of prior learning). New model of training developed in NHS Lothian for Respiratory Physiology at post-graduate level. Discussed what went well and challenges around delivery of internal training model. Next steps include liaising with NHS Scotland Academy to explore delivery of training model in other ways (e.g. digital delivery with application of clinical skills in training centres) and rolling out in standardised way across NHS Scotland.

Laura Jess, ARTP Scotland Chair, Head of Paediatric Respiratory and Sleep Physiology, NHS Lothian

ARTP Scotland Update
Discussed update on ARTP Scotland committee. Gave overview of previous committee structure and rationale for moving to new committee structure aligning Heads of Services Strategic Planning Group (HOSSPG) under remit of ARTP Scotland committee. Presented new committee elected to roles at ARTP AGM in 2025, and vacancies within committee which include “vice-roles” to provide opportunities for leadership for those interested in taking committee forward in future. Confirmed terms of reference drafted and agreed with ARTP Executive Board which is subject to review. Next steps for committee include circulating programme for ARTP Scotland Education Day on 6th March 2026, liaising with NHS Scotland Academy regarding delivery of online model of training at Practitioner Training Programme (PTP) level and delivery against ARTP strategic objectives for 2025-2026 which include enhancing communication across membership in Scotland.

Wales

Professor Vicki Heath, Chief Healthcare Scientific Officer for Wales

Challenges and Opportunities for Respiratory Physiology in Wales Role
Professor Vicki Heath opened the session by outlining her professional background as a clinical scientist and describing her current role as Chief Healthcare Scientific Officer for Wales. She emphasised her strong personal commitment to healthcare science, quality, and professional advocacy, drawing on extensive experience within the NHS. Although her role is not supported by additional funding, it represents the first time NHS Wales has established a dedicated senior leadership position for clinical science, marking a significant milestone for the profession. Professor Heath highlighted the importance of this role as a clear demonstration of formal recognition of healthcare science as a profession within NHS Wales. The establishment of the post was presented as progress toward greater strategic influence, improved visibility of clinical scientists, and stronger integration of scientific expertise into healthcare decision-making. She noted that this recognition brings long-term benefits for workforce morale, professional identity, and the quality of patient care, even in the absence of immediate financial investment.

The session also addressed the current political and structural context in Wales, particularly the impact of Senedd reform and the upcoming elections. Professor Heath explained that periods of political reform typically limit new policy development and place constraints on budgets, as organisations operate under pre-election restrictions and financial caution. This environment can temporarily slow innovation and service development, presenting challenges for healthcare science advancement in the short term.

A highlighted characteristic was that of impostor syndrome within clinical science, which Professor Heath described as a common and persistent issue affecting confidence, career progression, and professional visibility. She emphasised the importance of acknowledging this challenge openly and supporting scientists to recognise their expertise and value within multidisciplinary teams.

Professor Heath also stressed the critical role of effective communication, both within healthcare systems and with wider public audiences. The discussion highlighted the need for scientists to actively engage with diverse groups and tailor messages appropriately. She referenced research indicating that science engagement and research visibility often disproportionately reach middle-class, White audiences, limiting inclusivity and broader societal impact. (This research reference was sourced after the event and aligns with established findings in science communication literature, which demonstrate persistent demographic inequalities in public engagement with science (Wilkinson, Bultitude & Dawson, 2011)).

The session further explored the importance of early engagement, noting that children form associations with science from as young as five years old, at which point stereotypes around who “belongs” in science can begin to develop. This reinforced the need for inclusive, accessible communication strategies and outreach activities that challenge stereotypes early and promote diversity within the future scientific workforce.

Feedback and Key Takeaways
Professor Heath delivered a reflective and impactful session that combined strategic insight with personal authenticity. The presentation effectively highlighted both the progress made in recognising healthcare science in Wales and the systemic and cultural challenges that remain. Attendees particularly valued the honest discussion of impostor syndrome, the emphasis on communication skills, and the broader societal context influencing science engagement. The session reinforced the importance of leadership, advocacy, and inclusive communication in strengthening the future of healthcare science.

Dr Sarah Bant Session, Associate Director, Healthcare Science Workforce Transformation

HEIW Careers Framework and Workforce Development Role
Dr Sarah Bant presented an update on the Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) Careers Framework, with a particular focus on Respiratory and Sleep Science and broader workforce development initiatives. She explained that the careers framework is part of a 10-year strategic plan, now in year 7, with progress made across all planned objectives, indicating active development and implementation toward long-term goals.

Dr Bant highlighted that all career pathways within the framework are now recognised and funded via HEIW, reflecting a comprehensive approach to supporting healthcare science professions from entry to advanced levels. This includes formal recognition of career routes, training programmes, and funding across the discipline spectrum, ensuring equitable and supported progression for staff within NHS Wales.

An important area of focus was the Physiological Sciences pathways, which include Respiratory & Sleep Science roles such as those on the PTP and other structured professional routes. The PTP was described as particularly exciting, with increasing numbers of trainees entering the system year on year. This approach aims to strengthen graduate retention in Wales by encouraging healthcare science graduates to enter structured NHS training roles rather than moving directly into external programmes such as Scientist Training Programme without clinical experience.

Dr Bant also noted upcoming work for 2025–2026 focused on the sleep and respiratory scope of practice, including Clinical Consultant Scientist (CCS) roles and Healthcare Science Scientist (HSS) registration pathways. This signifies proactive efforts to define and support advanced practice and professional registration in key clinical science areas, ensuring clear progression and high standards of practice.

For reference, the HEIW NHS Wales Healthcare Science Career Framework (which includes roles and pathways such as respiratory and sleep science) can be viewed on the official HEIW website: https://heiw.nhs.wales/our-work/healthcare-science-cymru/development-for-healthcare-science-professionals/

Feedback and Key Takeaways
Dr Bant delivered a strategic and detailed overview of the HEIW careers framework, providing valuable clarity on progress within a long-term workforce plan. Attendees appreciated insights into the recognition and funding of career pathways, particularly around respiratory and sleep science, and the emphasis on structured training programmes as a mechanism to retain talent in Wales. The session reinforced how systematic career development supports workforce sustainability and strengthens professional identity across healthcare science. The update on planned work for the sleep and respiratory scope of practice in 2025–26 was particularly motivating, signalling ongoing growth and professionalisation within the field.

Both sessions were engaging and generated lively discussion, offering a clear and aligned perspective on the current state and future direction of healthcare science in Wales. Key messages highlighted a sustained period of growth in professional recognition, leadership, and workforce development, underpinned by the establishment of senior clinical science leadership roles and the continued delivery of the HEIW careers framework. Importantly, this progress has only been made possible through strong collaboration and shared input from multiple organisations. A central takeaway was that continued progression and long-term success will depend on maintaining and strengthening collaborative working between HEIW, NHS Wales, ARTP, CPSC, and other key stakeholders, ensuring collective ownership of future development and sustainability.

Northern Ireland

Professor Ian Young, Chief Scientific Advisor for Northern Ireland

Healthcare Science Update Northern Ireland
Professor Ian Young, Chief Scientific Advisor, opened the session by outlining recent leadership developments across Northern Ireland. Lead care healthcare scientists have now been appointed in four of the five Health and Social Care Trusts, with Belfast Health and Social Care Trust yet to confirm its appointment. Two of the appointed leads are healthcare scientists. These leads will establish multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) to provide structured feedback and inform policy and process development directly to Professor Young.

A key challenge identified was the ongoing lack of clarity around responsibility for healthcare science workforce planning in Northern Ireland. Workforce oversight does not currently sit clearly within the Department of Health, the Strategic Planning Board, or the Trusts, creating uncertainty and highlighting the need for a defined and coordinated approach to workforce strategy and planning.

Audiology was identified as a current priority area for Professor Young, with learning from this work expected to inform broader workforce planning models. He confirmed full support for Patient Group Directions (PGDs), prescribing by healthcare scientists, and the prioritisation of statutory regulation. Discussion also highlighted the fragmented progress of the Modernising Scientific Careers framework, which has been limited by insufficient funding and would require further investment to enable effective implementation.

Sophie Lusby, Lead Commissioner for Respiratory Northern Ireland

Respiratory Plan for Northern Ireland Update
Sophie Lusby, Lead Respiratory Commissioner for Northern Ireland, provided an update on the development of a new Respiratory Framework. The previous framework (2015–2018) was not strategy-led and did not include healthcare scientists. Following delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic, work has progressed on a new framework from 2023. The first phase, covering 2024–2026, focuses on primary care respiratory diagnostics and adult asthma, interstitial lung disease, and paediatrics within secondary care. Healthcare scientists are recognised as central to the successful delivery of this framework, with ongoing discussion regarding responsibility for workforce planning for physiologists.

Stephen Gordon, Ulster University

Healthcare Science Education Update
Stephen Gordon from Ulster University presented an update on the revalidation and enhancement of healthcare science degree programmes. Significant improvements have been made, including the introduction of direct entry routes into clinical healthcare science specialisms such as respiratory and cardiology. The university has invested in state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment, expanded simulation and practical learning opportunities, refined student portfolios, and reduced the administrative burden on Trusts. Entry requirements have also been raised, strengthening the academic foundation of incoming students. Increased engagement in schools and careers events, supported by healthcare scientists across Trusts and ARTP representation, aims to improve awareness of healthcare science careers.

Kloe Shorten, Respiratory Physiologist

Post Graduate Perspectives

A postgraduate perspective highlighted ongoing workforce retention challenges within Northern Ireland. Limited job availability continues to drive graduates to seek employment elsewhere, with concerns that returning staff may experience reduced scope of practice and deskilling. These challenges further reinforce the urgent need for a coherent and sustainable workforce strategy.

Melissa Traynor, ARTP NI Taskforce Deputy Chair

Update on ARTP Northern Ireland Taskforce
The session concluded with an update on the ARTP taskforce work in Northern Ireland, focusing on improving visibility, education, and professional engagement. Communication across the five Trusts has improved through the establishment of a shared WhatsApp community involving staff, students, and stakeholders. Professional recognition is also growing, with notable success at the HA&I Awards, including two winners and five respiratory finalists, supporting continued momentum and engagement within the profession.