Exploring the Perceived Impact of Postgraduate Urology Education on the Workforce

Abstract

The aim of the work was to evaluate the perceived impact of postgraduate urology education on the knowledge, confidence and career development of non-medical professionals. In addition, to assess implications for service delivery and cost savings in the context of evolving healthcare roles and workforce pressure. The objectives were firstly to assess the personal and professional development outcomes for nurses and allied health professionals (AHPs) who completed urology education programmes. Secondly, to explore changes in clinical service delivery, including the implementation of new procedures and clinics. Thirdly, to estimate cost savings and time efficiencies gained through role expansion, and finally, to identify any challenges associated with role development. A mixed-methods survey was administered to three cohorts of students who completed modules or full postgraduate urology programmes. Data was collected via an online questionnaire developed and piloted by the education team comprising Likert scale items and open-ended questions. Thirty-three responses of quantitative data were analysed independently by two researchers using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Ethical approval was granted by Edge Hill University (Ref: ETH2223-0246) for the study, including participant recruitment and data collection. Informed consent was obtained, and participants' confidentiality was maintained throughout. The majority of participants reported increased confidence, knowledge relating to urology and role development. Many expanded their roles by introducing new clinical services, and some assumed leadership roles in service development. A cost-benefit analysis demonstrated measuring savings linked to task shifting, particularly when nurses undertook local anaesthetic prostate biopsy (LATP) and flexible cystoscopies. The work concluded that postgraduate urology education for nurses and allied urology staff leads to significant workforce benefits and supports NHS service resilience. Further research is required to evaluate long-term impact and national scalability. Future research should also explore patient outcomes and organisational factors influencing the role expansion.