Diagnostics Recovery and Renewal

The need for radical investment and reform of diagnostic services was recognised at the time the NHS Long Term Plan was published in 2019

This report, commissioned by NHS England at that time, alongside a review of adult screening services, was nearing publication before the Covid-19 pandemic struck. However, while the recommendations made pre-pandemic still stand, additional actions will be needed to deliver safe, high quality diagnostic services.

The BAC notes Recommendation 16: "There should be a major drive to expand the pathology workforce, specifically histopathologists, advanced practitioners and other healthcare scientists, with an emphasis on skill mix. The establishment of training academies/schools should be considered"