From diagnostic radiographer to advanced clinical practitioner

My name is Tracey Maxfield and I have worked in the NHS since starting my student training as a diagnostic radiographer in 1988. 

I then completed a PGCert in Medical Imaging Reporting at the University of Bradford in 1996. I thought my career in radiography would be lifelong. However, the NHS’ long term plans included workforce development, and I began to look at opportunities outside of my background profession.

I’m now an advanced clinical practitioner. This exciting role is an unusual career pathway for a radiographer, but I love every minute of my new role and every day is a school day!

Master’s in Advanced Clinical Practice (Clinical Practitioner) 

At age 48, I was given the amazing opportunity of a part-time secondment to the advanced clinical practice (ACP) team based in acute medicine at Airedale Hospital. 

I was also supported and funded to join the Advanced Clinical Practitioner Master's programme at Bradford. I enjoyed each of the modules and learned so much. My writing and research skills at that time were rusty, so the support available at the University was invaluable.  

Global pandemic: adapt and overcome 

For my dissertation I wanted to cover a competency that could be used in my place of work. The global COVID-19 pandemic struck while I was studying, so I had to adapt my ideas based in a clinical setting. 

My completed dissertation formed the basis of two published journal articles and an award-winning poster, and is still in use at the hospital today for the benefit of patients. 

Career progression 

Successful completion of the MSc Advanced Clinical Practitioner was the start of my continued learning and gave me a platform to continue writing for publications, alongside an interest in research and motivation to go on and specialise as the first ACP in gastroenterology at Airedale.

ACPs are developing into specialist areas so there is a need for specialist education. I would like to underpin the work-based knowledge of gastroenterology with further level 7 study.

My working day

Since graduating in 2021 and attaining the core competencies of acute medicine, I continue to work on developing capability and building on my trainee experience. My day-to-day work involves seeing, diagnosing, treating and managing patients requiring same-day urgent care. 

I independently discharge patients and ensure correct follow up if required.  I also take calls for urgent referrals for medical and surgical assessment from the GPs, ED, community and speciality clinics. 

With a background in diagnostic radiography, I am often called upon for an unofficial opinion on imaging or in formulating a request for the most appropriate imaging modality and it is great to be able to continue using these skills. I have also developed expertise in practical procedures such as the use of focused ultrasound and abdominal paracentesis. 

When working on the in-patient area of the acute assessment unit, I independently assess patients on my own ward round and, in conjunction with the acute consultant physicians, formulate management plans and discharge follow up. It is fast-paced and busy part of the health service, and learning opportunities are a daily occurrence!  

I am involved in teaching and mentoring not only trainee ACPs, students and apprentices, but also junior doctors. I regularly reflect on my journey and hope that I can support those in training on their own path. 

The role of professional networking cannot be underestimated. Sometimes, it’s not what you know, but who you know! 

I was recently successful in applying for the first clinical specialist ACP role in gastroenterology. This is a chance to develop a special interest that began early in my ACP career, and I look forward to this new challenge.

Tips

You’re never too old to learn! Lived experiences have been a big part of my patient management caseload and I am delighted to be in a role where I can use these alongside evidence-based medical advice.

Be persistent. Don’t take ‘no’ for an answer and be prepared to work hard to achieve your dream. It will be worth it.

We are all living longer and currently, the national retirement age is 67. If you are unhappy in your current job, look for something else. Explore where your skills lie.

Master's level study can seem daunting. Consider a CPD module if a full degree is too much of a commitment initially. Sign up for the Open Days at Bradford, the friendly tutors gave me good advice that spurred me onwards.

Secure the support of your family and friends – you will need their understanding when you are studying.

Interested in following Tracey's career path? Check out our Radiography courses to find out where they might take you.