Equivalence

Equivalence exists when the outcomes of two processes are directly comparable even though the paths to achieving them are different. When equivalence is shown to exist between a new qualification and the qualification or experience an individual already has, repetition of effectively the same education or training becomes unnecessary.

The AHCS has developed equivalence assessment processes for Healthcare Science practitioners, scientists and higher specialist and scientists who have undertaken training, who hold qualifications and/or have considerable professional experience, and who wish to show that these are equivalent to the relevant training programme accredited by the National School of Healthcare Science.

Good Scientific Practice (GSP)is a key Academy document which underpins its healthcare science register, education and training and the Equivalence process. It sets out the foundations of professional standards on which safe and good working practice is based for all those in the healthcare science workforce.

After an extensive review process, the Academy has published an updated version of GSP. Many of the features of the original 2012 publication remain including the five domains under which the standards are clustered and alignment to other key statutory documents, but there have been changes. These include greater emphasis on putting the patient at the centre of all practice, how the standards relate to the breadth of the workforce, less duplication across the domains leading therefore to a reduction in the number of standards.

Using Generative Artificial Intelligence

The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is growing rapidly. AI can be used for a variety of purposes see https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/generative-artificial-intelligence-in-education/generative-artificial-intelligence-ai-in-education for some examples. However Generative AI can be used in ethical and unethical ways. For example, it can be used as a source of inspiration and help create ideas, or as a source of information, or to help with planning and management.

In the context of assessment, however, the unethical use of Generative AI can be considered to be a form of plagiarism and therefore if found could lead to the rejection of an Equivalence application, or an application for the Experience Practitioner Gateway.

For further details please refer to the relevant guidance statement:

Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in AHCS Equivalence

STP Equivalence Process

STP Equivalence now includes the requirement to write a reflective piece on why becoming a Clinical Scientist is important to you, and importantly how you have demonstrated that you made the patient your first concern during the Equivalence process. This reflective piece should be no longer than 500 words and may be submitted as evidence in the Appendix to protect word count.