A new National Specialty Cardiology Advanced Practice Framework has been launched following a collaboration between NHS Education for Scotland (NES) and Scottish NHS Health Boards.

Delivery of this innovative framework, led by Leeanne Macklin, NHS Forth Valley Senior Cardiology Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist, is designed to enhance the quality and delivery of cardiovascular care, addressing the increasing complexity and demand for services in cardiology.

With cardiovascular disease continuing to be one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Scotland, the framework aims to empower nurses to take on advanced roles in patient care. From assessment and diagnosis to treatment and management, nurses will be equipped with the advanced skills and expertise needed to improve patient outcomes. By establishing a clear and consistent standard for advanced nursing roles, the framework will help reduce waiting times, improve care coordination, and promote efficiency across Scotland.

The new framework outlines the strategic oversight, governance, and direction for Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) throughout Scotland, with a particular focus on creating consistent career pathways. It acknowledges the current challenges of role ambiguity, where job titles often do not align with clear educational pathways or provisions. To address this, the framework aims to categorise CNS roles under umbrella specialties, with sub-coding to identify specific responsibilities. This alignment will facilitate more accurate workforce data reporting, promote consistency across professional groups, and ensure a well-supported nursing workforce.

By providing nurses with the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to care for patients with complex cardiovascular conditions, the National Specialty Cardiology Advanced Practice Framework ensures the highest standards of care, benefitting both healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Key components of the framework include:

• Clinical Competence: Advanced nurses will gain expertise in diagnosing, managing, and treating cardiovascular conditions, including interpreting diagnostic tests and prescribing medications.
• Leadership and Management: The framework focuses on developing leadership skills, enabling nurses to lead teams, mentor colleagues, and drive improvements in care delivery.
• Education and Research: Nurses will be encouraged to engage in continuous professional development, evidence-based practice, and contribute to research and quality improvement initiatives.
• Collaboration and Multidisciplinary Teamwork: The framework emphasises the importance of collaboration across healthcare professions, ensuring holistic, patient-centred care.
• Patient-Centred Approach: The framework prioritises shared decision-making and care plans that align with the values and preferences of patients.

Leeanne Macklin, NHS Forth Valley Senior Cardiology Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist and National Heart Disease Coordinator for Scottish Government, explained: “The framework not only aims to enhance patient care but also offers a structured pathway for career progression in cardiology nursing. By creating clear routes to advanced practice roles such as Clinical Nurse Specialist and Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist, the framework supports the ongoing professional development of nurses within Cardiology across Scotland. This initiative is also designed to improve retention and job satisfaction by providing nurses with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in their careers.”

Public Health Minister Jenni Minto visited Forth Royal Valley Hospital in Larbert to launch the Framework and said: “Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of serious ill health and death, and nurses across the country make enormous efforts to ensure the best care for patients.

“As a government we want to support the NHS workforce and ensure they can continue to develop new skills that benefit patients. This innovative framework will help cardiology nurses obtain advanced skills to ensure more timely diagnoses, improved management of conditions and better access to care.

“I hope that cardiology nurses across Scotland will find this to be a useful framework and that it helps them to develop their careers and meet the increasing amount of cardiovascular demand that we are seeing across the system.”

The National Specialty Cardiology Advanced Practice Framework marks a significant milestone in the ongoing development of Scotland’s healthcare system. By fostering an environment of continuous learning, leadership, and collaboration, the framework will play a critical role in shaping the future of cardiology services across the country, improving outcomes for patients, and ensuring that Scotland’s nursing workforce remains skilled and motivated.