Alma Economics was commissioned by the North Central and East London Cancer Alliance and Health Education England (HEE) to examine a proposed solution to address retention and recruitment issues for diagnostic radiography staff.

Our methodology combined quantitative (e.g. administrative data) and qualitative elements (e.g. case studies and an online survey) to estimate the costs and benefits that are expected to flow from the rollout of a competency-based progression scheme for diagnostic radiographers in London.

To calculate the costs, we considered several data sources on hiring and administrative and supervision costs, as well as on vacancy rates, staff in post, salaries, and tenure. The key assumptions for calculating the benefits were informed by interviews and an online survey with Trusts implementing competency-based progression schemes.

To calculate the baseline, we developed a micro-simulation model to estimate staffing changes and costs month by month over a 5-year period for a range of scenarios, including full implementation and partial implementation. We also estimated how impacts of the progression scheme would vary across Trusts with different characteristics, such as differing recruitment, retention, and vacancy rates.

Our analysis included recommendations and highlighted the factors that would underpin the implementation of a successful career progression scheme.