Don’t let your staff stick their heads in the sand!
That's the message to managers from the SoR as it urges all members to think creatively for their continuing professional development (CPD).
Since 2006 radiographers have been required to testify that they have maintained
an up-to-date CPD portfolio as a condition of HPC registration.
The HPC will randomly select radiographers for audits from 2010. Those wishing to remain registered will need to begin their CPD portfolios now if they haven’t already.
Helen Wickham, SoR regional officer, comments: “CPD doesn’t have to be onerous or long-winded. There are many ways radiographers can maintain contemporary competence to practice.”
These, says Helen, include attending accredited study days, reading peer-review journals and accessing internet learning materials.
CPD Now, the SoR's online CPD system, enables radiographers to plan and record their CPD activities. CPD Now also covers the HPC standards and the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework so users can show compliance for both with a single portfolio.
CPD Now is provided as a member benefit with no extra charge.
Helen has organised a series of events in the Northern and Yorkshire regions to support those who are struggling with their portfolio.
“There could be a significant number of radiographers out there who just aren’t computer literate and are unsure about what the internet can offer, but this doesn’t need to be a barrier," she said.
Sue Ogden, advanced practitioner at Halifax, attended the first session earlier this year: "There is a fear of the unknown, especially with some of the older radiographers who may well be burying their heads in the sand.
"I found the session really useful. We sat in pairs when putting information on the CPD Now system. I sat with another advanced practitioner who is a bit more computer savvy than me and she pointed me in the right direction. If I can do it then anyone can!"
• Sign up now for the latest CPD support sessions available from the Society. Dates are 22 November (Northern region) and 29 November (Yorkshire).
• Visit the SoR website for more information about CPD.
