BIOS endorse and welcome the shared professional statement from the Chief Allied Health Professions Officers in each of the four UK countries on Advanced practice in the Allied Health Professions (AHPs).
Tha statement was produced in order to provide clarity for leaders and decision makers about how advanced practice for the allied health professions is defined, regulated and governed.
We believe this statement provides an important and valuable shared definition of advanced practice for AHPs across all four nations. This will guide professional development and foster a shared understanding of advanced practice principles across the healthcare system. Definitions of advanced practice have previously differed between the four nations, leaving Orthoptists without a clear framework for recognition and progression. This clear statement is an accurate reflection of advanced practice that will support the development of highly skilled and competent practitioners who can deliver innovative and patient-centred care.
We believe this statement represents a significant step forward in supporting aspiring advanced practitioners from all AHP backgrounds, to reach this level of practice. This clear framework supports the delivery of safe, high-quality, and holistic care for individuals, their families, and caregivers, by enabling the development and recognition of advanced practice for AHPs.