The role, scope and utilisation of the imaging support workforce in England: A qualitative framework analysis

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Radiology Workforce Studies
• Health Services Research

Background:

• The unregistered support workforce is crucial for addressing the imaging workforce crisis.
• Current deployment models for imaging support staff are not well understood.
• This study investigates support workforce deployment across England.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore models of support workforce deployment in English imaging departments.
• To identify factors influencing the implementation of these deployment models.
• To inform strategies for better utilisation of the imaging support workforce.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative workforce data.
• Framework Analysis was used to analyse interviews with Imaging Network representatives and Radiology Service Managers (RSMs).
• Data were collected from diverse imaging services across England, representing various regions and sizes.

Main Results:

• Interviews with 18 Imaging Networks and 24 imaging services revealed significant variations in role utilisation, deployment, scope of practice, and pay rates.
• Assistant Practitioner roles were inconsistently implemented with limited scope.
• The imaging support workforce plays a pivotal role, but its deployment is operationally managed rather than strategically planned.

Conclusions:

• Support workforce deployment models are developing in isolation, leading to local variations.
• The imaging support workforce is under-utilised and requires a more consistent approach to utilisation and deployment.
• National alignment of roles and competencies is urgently needed for effective workforce planning.