Comprehensive Progress Report
We're excited to bring you the latest developments on the Technician to Paramedic Transition Pathway. Since our last discussion from August through November, there have been significant strides forward in this initiative. We've reached a pivotal stage where we can share these updates with you.
Background Insights
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) plays a pivotal role in regulating health and care professions within the UK, focusing on setting standards for professional education, training, and practice. For paramedics, meeting these standards involves completing a program of study approved by the HCPC. Notably, from September 2021, the HCPC introduced a new education threshold for paramedics, requiring a Bachelor's degree with honors or its equivalent.
Responding to this change, the Scottish Paramedic Integrated National Education (SPiNE) initiative commenced in 2018, led by the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) and NHS Education for Scotland (NES). This program aimed to facilitate the transition to the new degree requirements, including securing necessary funding. A procurement event in January 2019 resulted in contracts with five universities, taking into account the geography of health boards. This transition marked the end of the SAS and Glasgow Caledonian University's previous Diploma in Paramedic Practice collaboration.
Progress and Engagement
To adapt to these changes, SAS, in partnership with NES, is exploring pathways to re-establish an earn-and-learn route for technicians aspiring to become paramedics. The first phase of this exploration involved extensive engagement with a wide range of stakeholders to understand the complexities, challenges, and possible solutions within this landscape.
Future Directions
Our journey continues with strategic engagement, including discussions with the Chief Nursing Officers Directorate at the Scottish Government. The next steps involve developing a comprehensive Business Case by the end of March, encompassing detailed workforce analysis, cost estimates, and policy considerations. This phase will also evaluate the potential impacts on the BSc paramedic program, current practice placements, professional development, and resource allocation, alongside a thorough risk and equality impact assessment.
Collaborative Efforts
A strategic board meeting in early December showcased a unified commitment to advancing this initiative, despite the financial constraints and broader challenges in healthcare recruitment and retention. This bulletin serves to keep all staff informed about the ongoing efforts and the collective dedication to progress in the best interests of our workforce.
Stay Informed and Engaged
Look out for an upcoming survey related to this project. Your participation is crucial. For more details or to contribute further to this conversation, please contact Patricia Gallagher at patriciaanne.gallagher@nhs.scot, who is leading this significant work.
Our Commitment
Our dedication to enhancing the professional development pathways for our staff remains unwavering. We are committed to keeping you updated on these efforts and invite your active involvement in shaping the future of healthcare education and practice.
Further Information
Link to Staff Engagement Session 01/06/23 Technician to Paramedic Progression
Link to Staff Engagement Session - 20-10-22 - Technician to Paramedic
