National Breast Imaging Academy Set to Save Lives and £50 Million
The National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) is tackling workforce shortages head-on, boosting patient outcomes while slashing healthcare costs by an eye-watering £50 million over the next decade. An independent report reveals that their innovative training programmes are a game changer for breast cancer detection and care in England.
Fresh Training Programmes to Fix Staff Shortages
Since its launch in 2018, the NBIA has rolled out cutting-edge training solutions including a Mammography Associate apprenticeship, Breast Clinician Credential, Radiology Fellowship, and a suite of e-learning tools. Funded by Health Education England (HEE) and hosted by Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, these schemes are designed to plug recruitment gaps and keep skilled staff in the breast imaging workforce.
£50 Million Saved by Cutting Reliance on Locums and Agencies
Economics By Design’s evaluation compared these new programmes against traditional staffing methods, like costly agency and locum hires, confirming the £50 million saving forecast between 2020 and 2029.
“None have the unique mandate to develop and implement solutions to workforce problems like NBIA,” the report stated. “Their initiatives add undeniable value to the system, ensuring improved patient services and better outcomes for women with breast cancer.”
Experts Praise NBIA’s Impact on Breast Cancer Care
Nerys Blake, Deputy Director of Diagnostics Workforce at HEE, welcomed the findings:
“HEE is thrilled to support NBIA’s vital work tackling workforce challenges. Their national fellowship, credentialed clinician programmes, apprenticeships, and online resources have raised awareness and created clear career paths in breast imaging.”
NBIA Programme Lead, Dr Mary Wilson, added:
“We’ve already supported over 160 Mammography Associates, 31 Radiology Fellows, and 20 Breast Clinicians in training, helping to clear screening backlogs and speed up diagnosis and treatment referrals. But to keep this momentum—and reduce breast cancer deaths—we need ongoing investment in trainers, trainees, and facilities nationwide.”
With the NBIA driving national collaboration and innovation, breast cancer services in England look set for a brighter, healthier future.
