The Healthcare Science Associate Cardiac Physiologist provides direct care to patients who are undergoing cardiac investigations and supports to the wider Cardiology Team.
The Healthcare Science Associate in Cardiac Physiology will perform, interpret ECG’s and blood pressure measurements in addition to providing support with longer term ECG and blood pressure monitoring, including remote monitoring and 24hr-72hr Ambulatory monitoring.
Associate Cardiac Physiologists will provide, fit and interpret a range of monitoring devices to assess for any cardiac abnormalities and assist senior staff in other areas of the service.
The role is patient facing which involves regular discussions with patients and other health professionals, so communication skills are paramount. Other vital skills involve technical ability to perform and interpret results which also involve problem-solving. The role can be fast paced when working in emergency settings.
The responsibilities of the Healthcare Science Associate will vary depending on the requirements of the department. Responsibilities might include:
Good verbal communication skills are essential, along with organisational skills. Associate Audiologists must be able to appropriately prioritise own workload, have the ability to work as part of a team and also use their own initiative.
Fine motor skills are also important for this role along with ability to solve problems. A caring nature is essential as the role is patient focused.
£23,949 to £26,282 per year pro rata
Working days are scheduled on a rota across the week (Monday to Sunday) and can include working weekends.
Typical daytime hours are 8.30am to 5pm.
Usually employed in the NHS although some opportunities to work within the private sector are available.
This is an entry level role so no previous experience is required, however experience working as a Healthcare Science Assistant / Senior Assistant in Cardiology (Band 2 or 3) would be useful. A previous caring role might be advantageous and any volunteering work in an associated area would also be beneficial.
This is a fast-paced patient facing role which requires good communication skills, problem-solving and technical ability. Healthcare Science Associates usually work without direct supervision but have access to senior Cardiac Physiology staff as required. The work is very varied within a limited scope of practice.
A significant part of this role involves the use of computers, databases and specialist medical equipment associated with the Cardiology Department.
Healthcare Science Associate’s follow departmental policies and procedures to maintain departmental standards and ensure patient safety. They also follow role specific professional body guidelines (SCST), departmental and national guidelines recommended for safe practice.
Depending on the qualification and role, Healthcare Science Associate’s may also be required to register with a professional body, such as HCPC.
Progression to Band 5 Healthcare Science Practitioner in Cardiac Physiology is possible with further study – Please refer to Band 5 Healthcare Science Practitioner in Cardiac Physiology role. The Academy for Healthcare Science – AHCS
Following successful completion of a Foundation Degree in Cardiac Physiology, it may be possible to gain direct entry into the second or third year of an appropriate degree programme. Completion of the remainder of the degree programme would allow progression to Healthcare Science Practitioner roles.
Apply online through multiple websites, such as NHS Jobs and GOV.UK’s “find an apprenticeship” service.
To become a Healthcare Science Associate Cardiac Physiologist, it is necessary to complete either an appropriate Apprenticeship or a Foundation Degree in Cardiac Physiology. To access these programmes, it is compulsory to have gained employment first within either a Cardiology Department in the NHS or a private sector, as a significant portion of the course includes work-based training for the role.
Typically, 5 or more GCSEs at Grade C or above including Maths, English and Science or equivalent.
Science A-levels may also be required, especially if applying for Foundation Degree Route.
Check individual university requirements for further details.
Programmes will also require enhanced DBS disclosure and occupational health checks.
Entry requirements will vary dependant on the degree or degree apprenticeship programme route and the University. It is important that you check specific university requirements.
Requirements usually include:
Programmes will also require an enhanced DBS disclosure and checks before you begin a placement in the NHS.
