Our policy on training the screening workforce

To achieve the ambitious targets for uptake of screening, it is important that the NHS is adequately equipped in terms of a trained workforce to service its needs.

We therefore want the Governments of the four UK nations to ensure that there are appropriate numbers of adequately trained staff. This is important for all the screening programmes. As evidence emerges demonstrating the benefit of new screening techniques, training for those expected to deliver this service will need to be revised and adapted.

Workforce planning

Workforce planning is needed to ensure that people are invited for screening regularly, within the specified time interval.

Lack of capacity and inadequate workforce planning can mean that in some areas the screening programmes are not meeting national minimum standards. Cancer Research UK has recently conducted a survey of PCTs throughout England to find out how they approach this challenge. You can download a copy of the report here.

Challenges

Since the start of the breast screening programme in 1988, it has been increasingly difficult to recruit and retain radiographers and radiologists. The bowel screening pilot also generated considerable additional work for colonoscopy and endoscopy services.

In England, the roll out of bowel screening was estimated to generate demand for up to 30,000 extra colonoscopies and require up to 200 additional expert colonoscopists. When the age range is extended from 70 up to 75 years from 2010, around one million more men and women will be screened each year.

In cervical screening the Government commitment to deliver a two-week turnaround for results by 2010 will require increased workforce capacity. This will only be achieved through a number of mechanisms including the full roll out of liquid based cytology testing of samples, better use of IT, and a greater number of specialist practitioners. To meet this target, local services must take steps to improve their efficiency and monitor progress.