Modernising AHP Careers
23 July 2008
The joint DH/Skills for Health project Modernising AHP careers was launched by Health Minister Ann Keen on 16th July 2008. Modernising AHP careers encourages a move towards a competence-based model for AHP careers that focuses on the skills required for patient-centred services, rather than the professions themselves. This will allow AHPs to develop the skills they need to take on new and extended roles in their profession.
Managers and teams can use the framework to describe the full range of competences required to meet patient needs. By identifying roles by competences rather than professional groups, service planners and managers can consider new styles of provision and role developments for AHPs. The Skills for Health web based tools provide easy access for
- service managers and planners to define the competences that services, teams and individuals must have in order to meet patient needs and develop roles, teams and services to reflect these.
- clinicians and support staff to define their current competences and skills, and identify areas for development and potential career pathways.
- education planners and education commissioners to identify the development needs of AHPs, and plan and provide training and development to meet these.
There is also a dedicated webpage in the Career frameworks section of the website where case studies are being presented to show career progression for AHPs and further information will be presented from the early implementer sites.
In launching the tools Health Minister Ann Keen said:
“These tools provide a win-win situation – they are good for patients but they are also good for AHPs. It has always been clear to me how incredibly important AHPs are to health and social care. They are key to health promotion whether advising on diet, exercise or supporting children to communicate so they can access education. They also have a key role in the housing, education and social care sectors. They are truly invaluable to the health service.”
Hard copies of the launch document can be obtained by e mailing
jean.tonry@skillsforhealth.org.uk or any queries about the project should be directed to
alison.strode@skillsforhealth.org.uk
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