Publish date: 14 July 2026
Innovative workforce development programme shortlisted for regional healthcare science award
An innovative workforce development programme designed to address national workforce challenges while improving patient care and staff development has been shortlisted for a regional healthcare science award.
The Cardiac Rhythm Management team at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has been shortlisted in the Training and Education category at the North East and Yorkshire Regional Healthcare Science Awards.
The multidisciplinary team works together to diagnose and treat heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), specialising in identifying and correcting electrical signal problems that cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow or irregularly.
The North East and Yorkshire Regional Healthcare Science Awards celebrate the achievements and contributions of the healthcare science workforce, recognising initiatives that are transforming healthcare through innovation in diagnostics, technology, devices and therapies.
The nomination recognises the team's innovative workforce development programme, which was created in response to the national shortage of healthcare scientists and the need for more accessible training pathways into the sub speciality of cardiac rhythm management profession.
As part of the programme, the team developed a structured competency framework to support staff working within cardiac rhythm management who may not wish, or be able, to complete formal accreditation but still require the skills, knowledge and confidence to deliver safe, high-quality patient care.
Alongside this, the team has introduced high-quality work experience opportunities and innovative simulation-based training, allowing learners to develop practical skills through realistic clinical scenarios in a safe and supportive environment.
Megan Anderson, Clinical Physiology Services Manager, played a key role in developing the programme. Reflecting on the nomination, she said:
"When we identified the national shortage of CRM physiologists and healthcare scientists, we recognised the need for a clear training and development pathway into the profession. This programme was created to invest in people and build a sustainable workforce for the future.
Its success is a testament to the dedication of our training team and consultant colleagues, who developed and delivered a high-quality programme despite workforce pressures. Together, they created a supportive learning environment that has helped trainees build confidence through practical experience while fostering a culture of learning and innovation.
The impact has been significant. The programme has strengthened recruitment, retention and career development opportunities, while giving existing staff the chance to grow as educators and mentors.
Most importantly, our patients are benefiting. By expanding the workforce and increasing training capacity, we are helping to reduce waiting times, improve access to diagnostic tests and ensure patients receive timely, high-quality care. We're incredibly proud of the difference this programme has made, not only within Northumbria but across the wider region."
The winners of the North East and Yorkshire Regional Healthcare Science Awards will be announced at the award ceremony on Wednesday 15 July, with the team's nomination recognising the lasting impact of investing in education, innovation and workforce development to improve care for patients now and in the future.