Radiography Structure and Roles

The Four Tier model in Radiography states there are four main roles within a Radiography Department since the Agenda for Change enforced pay-band changes (Employees were to be paid according to their skill and competence, rather than their professional status).

Assistant Practitioner - Undertakes specific roles under supervision from a registered professional

Practitioner - Undertakes a wide-range of tasks and has professional accountability, Continuously develops practice (CPD)

Advanced Practitioner - Autonomous in clinical practice within a defined field and defines scope of practice for others - CPD

Consultant Practitioner - Clinical, professional leadership through research, education and development in practice within a specific field. Partakes largely in Interprofessional Working as their role crosses over other's roles also (must partake in MultiDisciplinary Team Meetings), 50% of their time must be clinical practice - undertaking (and reporting of) procedures - CPD 

According to the Department of Health the Four Tier structure betters patient outcomes, develops career opportunities (such as Consultant Radiographers), develops workforce, retention of expertise and improves leadership. It improves Clinical governance (audits, protocols, CPD), patient pathway and national policies.

Although the Four Tier framework allows for clearly defined roles, Constultant Practioners must overlap roles and work together in order to provide a more efficient, patient focussed NHS. 

We must all go the extra mile. Just put in that little bit more time and make someone else's life easier. You never know when you'll need their help.