What do the revised UK standards of proficiency mean for diagnostic radiography training? A regional radiographer focus group study

Abstract

IntroductionRevisions to the UK Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) standards of proficiency for diagnostic radiographers came into effect on September 1st 2023. Changes include an increase of proficiencies in CT and extended to MRI imaging. As workforce support the development of learners to meet stage outcomes in practice, this study aimed to understand the radiographers' expectations of future learners' training to meet the new standards of proficiency. MethodsSnowball sampling was used to invite practice educators/student supervisors and department leads within the 21 NHS Trusts in the North East and Yorkshire region providing diagnostic radiography practice placements. Online focus groups used a semi structured topic guide to explore the expectations of student performance during different stages of their training, and on different types of pre-registration programmes. Participants views were sought on considerations for appropriate assessment. Thematic analysis was supported by NVivo software. ResultsFifteen diagnostic radiographers across 11 NHS trusts participated in 5 focus groups in November 2022. The findings showed consistency in expectations of student performance in projectional radiography, patient care and communication. Participants felt some standards of proficiency were beyond threshold competency, or current practices were a barrier in supporting learning. Participants felt assessment over a period and range of examinations in the clinical environment gave a fairer picture of student performance. ConclusionThere is uncertainty and perceived barriers in supporting future diagnostic radiography training in the practice setting. Implications for practiceFurther work will be needed to identify and support appropriate learning opportunities and stage outcomes if learners are to meet the breadth of HCPC standards of proficiency with some consistency.