A Cardiac Physiologist (CP), after a period of training, is responsible for the recording and analysis of different physiological data required to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of known or suspected cardiac disease. The CP is the friendly professional face in this high technological environment linking the patient with the diagnostic equipment. The CP normally works in a Cardiology Department within a hospital. The variety of procedures carried out vary from hospital to hospital. Some smaller hospitals may also include procedures from other disciplines e.g. respiratory function tests. CPs often work with patients who are unwilling or unable to co-operate. A calm, confident but sympathetic approach is required to achieve an appropriate outcome for the patient. Useful website of NHS careers.

How to Apply

All trainee and qualified posts are advertised in local press and/or the SCST Update. For further information about a career as a Cardiac Physiologist look on the NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk or contact the SCST on admin@scst.org.uk

Trainees can be employed or full time students. Employed trainees attend a University to undertake the clinical physiology (cardiology) degree programme sorted out by the employing department. Full time student trainees attend a University under UCAS rules. A full list of education providers is available from this link or also find from RCCP who accredit the degree programmes

Professional Bodies

Professional bodies oversee the educational and professional standard of their members working within specific Medical and Paramedical professions.

The Society for Cardiological Science and Technology (SCST) is the professional body for Cardiac Physiologists and Cardiographers. The Society for Cardiological Science and Technology was established in 1948 and has branches in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Eire. The Council and Education Committee usually meet in London. The SCST has close links with the British Cardiovascular Society which represent the medical specialists in Cardiology. Annually the SCST undertakes to provide professional examinations for members. The SCST seeks to promote good professional practice and standards throughout the profession of Cardiology.

Career Prospects

For pay and conditions of service CPs and Cardiographers are generally paid on the NHS pay banding system. Qualified staff should commence on Band 5.

Cardiac Physiologists have five recognised grades:

Cardiographers have two recognised grades.

Cardiographers have a Society examination available. Certificate in Electrocardiography. Click here for application form

The scientific and technical grading structure varies from hospital to hospital, normally depending on the complexity of work undertaken. Grades Senior Cardiac Physiologist and above are not automatically awarded but are applied for as posts become vacant. It may be necessary to move from the local area to achieve promotion.

Private hospitals (non NHS) have their own pay systems but often mirror the NHS pay.

Professional Body

For information, contact: The Society on the details found at the contact us webpage