Training and accreditation of healthcare workers : are training guidelines meeting needs of the community?

Abstract

Purpose of the researchThis paper presents an analysis of, and recommendations for, the training and accreditation of healthcare workers in CanadaThe significant cost of education and healthcare, as well as the current and ongoing national shortage of healthcare professionals, warrants a critical look at the educational training requirements of healthcare workers in Canada. This topic includes reviewing the historical background of training for a variety of healthcare professionals in Western cultures, the common philosophy of education trends for these workers, and the future directions for various professions, focusing specifically on Medical Radiation Technologists in Canada.Methods used The methodology applied to this research is that of critical analysis, utilizing the following critical skills as proposed by philosopher Bertrand Russell: “(i) the ability to form an opinion for oneself” (tasks of recognizing, listening and questioning), “(ii) the ability to find an impartial solution” (dealing with biases and detachment for beliefs, judging on merit of issues), and “(iii) the ability to identify and question assumptions” (emphasis on judgment, critical reflection and constructive rather than destructive doubt)(Hare, 2001, pp8-9). Recommendations regarding pre-service and continuing educational training for Medical Radiation Technologists in Canada will be proposed.Tied to any investigation of healthcare workers is a critical assessment of the healthcare system, as the needs of the community that is served by these professionals must be identified and successfully met. The literature review includes national statistics and summaries of health and lifestyle trends, as well as the trends for the education and training of healthcare workers.Results obtained/Significance of findingsReflective, critical assessment of the training and future trends of healthcare workers reveals that healthcare has undergone two major changes in focus: (1) healthcare as a business and (2) the holistic interdisciplinary trend of patient care.After investigating the trends of health care professionals’ training, and even though the arguments for degree as entry-to-practice are very strong on many levels, I don’t feel that I can conclude that the degree is the only option. If diploma training can adequately provide the basic theory and skills needed, additional skills and training, when required for a particular task, should be, and currently are, made available to the individual.