Enhanced Practitioner (Image Guided Biopsy) in Breast Imaging, Band 7

Job summary

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Breast Imaging Team at Gloucestershire Breast Screening.

We are seeking a motivated and experienced radiographer to support our expanding service. Applicants must hold a postgraduate qualification in mammography and have extensive post-qualification experience in breast imaging.

The successful candidate will either already hold, or be willing to undertake, the Level 7 Interventional Mammography-Guided Biopsy qualification.

Key Responsibilities

- Perform advanced clinical practice including stereotactic-guided breast biopsies

- Contribute to the delivery of a high-quality breast screening and symptomatic service

- Work collaboratively as part of the radiographic management team

- Support service development and maintain clinical excellence within the multidisciplinary team

This is an excellent opportunity to further develop enhanced practice skills within a supportive and forward-thinking team.

The proposed interview date is 1st July

Main duties of the job

- Support the Service Lead Radiographer in delivering a safe, efficient, and high-quality Breast Imaging service

- Deputise for the Service Lead and wider management team as required

- Contribute to both the NHS Breast Screening Programme and symptomatic imaging services

- Undertake (or work towards) advanced practice, including stereotactic biopsy procedures

- Ensure smooth day-to-day service delivery, maintaining patient safety, quality, and throughput

- Maintain and adhere to departmental protocols and QMS procedures

- Support training of student mammographers and Assistant Practitioners

- Oversee QA processes, working with QA radiographers and Medical Physics to resolve issues

- Demonstrate excellent communication, professionalism, and empathy in a sensitive environment

- Work accurately and efficiently under pressure with a strong patient-centred approach

About us

Thirlestaine Breast Centre provides the breast screening service for the population of Gloucestershire. The target population is currently 110,000 women aged 50-70 years, but it is expected to increase by up 10-15% with demographic changes over the next decade.

We have 4 digital mammography units, 3 with stereotactic capability and all with tomosynthesis capability, one of which also has contrast enhanced mammography. There are three ultrasound units, replaced in 2021.Two mobile units provide screening for clients at other sites in Gloucestershire.

In terms of medical staff there are one breast clinicians, five consultant radiologists and a clinical imaging specialist radiographer involved in the screening programme. The remainder of the staff comprises specialist radiographers, nurses, and office staff. The unit is actively involved in role extension with Advanced and Enhanced Practice Radiographers performing screen reading and image guided breast biopsy.

The co-location of the imaging and surgical clinics lends itself to an excellent collaborative approach to both elements of the breast service. Imaging input for the symptomatic patients is provided by the same staff listed above. There are six consultant breast surgeons. There are one stop new patient clinics daily during the working week. We see approximately 5000 new cases per year; there are an additional 8000 surveillance mammograms undertaken annually.