Healthcare Science in Scotland: Defining Our Strategic Approach: Fairer Scotland Impact Assessment

Stage 1: Planning

What is the aim of the policy/strategy/plan?

The aim of the paper to which this impact assessment relates, is to set a strategic direction for healthcare science in Scotland – beginning to address issues of visibility and inclusion within service planning and delivery, to ensure healthcare science is fully embedded and therefore patient outcomes are improved.

This paper will set the direction for future work to be carried out in relation to healthcare science, under 5 key themes and aligned to a new vision and ambitions for the profession.

Specific details of future work will be set out in further papers over time.

Who will it affect (particular groups/businesses/geographies)?

• NHS workforce (specifically the scientific workforce but also the wider workforce).
• Patients undergoing diagnostic testing or treatment.
• Wider NHS Scotland system.

It should be noted that there are no specific actions or recommendations set out as part of the paper to which this impact assessment relates. As such it is not possible to provide an exhaustive list of those who may be affected – this will need to be considered in the next phase of work.

What main outcomes do you expect the policy/strategy/plan to deliver

This paper sets the parameters for future work to be undertaken. It sets the expectation of work to be carried out under 5 key themes and aligned to As actions or recommendations for work are not specifically set out in this paper it is not possible to assess the impact of any set activity. Further evidence should be gathered and form part of a future Fairer Scotland Impact Assessment when proposed actions are considered.

What main outcomes do you expect the policy/strategy/plan to deliver?

This paper sets the parameters for future work to be undertaken. It sets the expectation of work to be carried out under 5 key themes and aligned to ‘strategic ambitions’ focussed on improving visibility and inclusion in service planning to benefit patient outcomes.

There are no specific deliverables contained within this paper.

What is your timeframe for completing the Fairer Scotland Assessment?

Completion by March 2024