IPEM Submits Evidence to the Government's Spending Review

IPEM has made a formal submission to the Government's Spending Review 2025 process.

In its submission, IPEM highlighted that both medical physics and clinical engineering are essential for advancing medical technology and ensuring that patients receive the highest quality of care.

The medical physics and clinical engineering workforce is integral to the effective delivery of advanced healthcare services. In radiotherapy, they ensure the precise targeting of tumours using sophisticated equipment such as Linear accelerators, which require continuous support and maintenance. For MRI scanners, these professionals manage the safety protocols and operational efficiency, ensuring that the equipment functions correctly and safely. They also play a crucial role in the quality assurance of ultrasound devices, guaranteeing accurate diagnostics. Beyond equipment maintenance, they are involved in training new staff, ensuring a well-prepared workforce, and leveraging data science to enhance patient outcomes and streamline operations. This multifaceted support is essential for maintaining high standards of patient care and advancing medical technology.

The most urgent step to take is tackling the workforce shortages in Medical Physics and Clinical Engineering.

To fill current vacancies alone, the MPCE workforce across the UK requires at least 1,000 additional staff.

Whilst recent investment announcements on radiotherapy equipment are welcome, they will only help to clear the existing backlog of overdue replacements, but not provide for a rolling programme as more machines reach the end of their optimal life. A rolling programme of replacement should be put in place.