The Health Service Journal Independent Healthcare Providers Awards has recognised the work of St. Joseph’s Hospital for their innovative, radiographer-led diagnostic service.
St Joseph’s Hospital, in Newport, South Wales, was shortlisted for the Health Service Journal (HSJ) Independent Healthcare Providers Awards (IHP), incorporated this year into the HSJ Partnership Awards for its inaugural event, in recognition of their “invaluable contribution” to the NHS.
HSJ’s IHP Awards spotlight independent healthcare providers who complement NHS services, especially during times of high demand, and showcase exemplary achievement, innovation and integration across the healthcare system.
The winners of the IHP Awards, including Best Provider of Diagnostic Services, will be revealed at the IHP Awards ceremony on 20 March 2025.
Responsive and enhanced service
St Joseph’s Hospital was shortlisted for the 'Best Provider of Diagnostic Services' Award, for their “innovative radiographer-led service, providing a responsive and enhanced service, with prompt diagnosis, for cardiac patients”.
This accolade follows the hospital’s recent investment into advanced diagnostics facilities, after the team received a new CT scanner last year – the first of its kind in Wales, offering greater precision and speed in delivery of high-quality imaging while reducing radiation exposure to patients.
Rachel Davies, advanced diagnostics clinical lead, said: “Through collaborative working, our radiology team provides patients with rapid and increased opportunities of detection and prevention as well as alleviating the pressure of risk stratification.
“Transforming the delivery of cardiac imaging to patients is imperative for driving standards forwards. Through efficient and effective use of state-of-the-art resources, our team has thrived using new technology.”
'Innovative and patient-focused'
By investing in the new diagnostics technology, the hospital seeks to support the NHS recovery plan with critical diagnostic testing for patients with underlying health conditions.
“It is wonderful to be recognised for this work through the HSJ Independent Healthcare Providers Awards, and we are so proud to celebrate the success of our innovative and patient-focused approach to diagnostics,” Ms Davies added.
“The team looks forward to sharing what we are doing through education forums, as it is our desire to lead and transform patient services across the diagnostics community. We are breaking down traditional boundaries by working in partnership and empowering radiographers, and we hope this award nomination further highlights our commitment to providing excellent, patient-focused services within advanced diagnostics.”
A crucial role
A spokesperson for the HSJ said: “The current healthcare landscape in the UK is characterised by significant reliance on Independent Healthcare Providers (IHPs) to meet the demands of an overburdened NHS system. IHPs have been instrumental in addressing both acute and chronic challenges within the healthcare system, ensuring sustainability and improved patient care.
“Their role has become even more crucial as the NHS grapples with the workforce challenges and ongoing financial pressures. This recognition encourages continued collaboration, serving as a benchmark of excellence and offering IHPs a prestigious opportunity to influence the broader healthcare agenda, ensuring their integral role in a more integrated and productive healthcare system.”
This awards programme is judged by senior NHS figures, including many trust and ICS executives.
Alongside St. Joseph's Hospital, seven other independent healthcare providers were shortlisted for Best Provider of Diagnostic Services, including:
- Alliance Medical - Outstanding National Diagnostic Impact, Locally Delivered
- Cyted Health & NHS Scotland - Capsule sponge testing - Transforming early cancer detection across Scotland
- ECG On-Demand - Holter Services for Primary Care
- Everlight Radiology - Improving Patient Access to Specialised Radiology Reporting Globally
- GP Care UK - One Stop Shop Community Urology Model
- Hexarad & Mid South Essex Foundation Trust - Using Technology to Improve the Efficiency of Radiology Services
- InHealth Group and NHS South West - Increasing Capacity and Bringing Diagnostics to New Geographical Locations in the South West
Independent Healthcare Providers Awards winners are automatically shortlisted for the wider HSJ Awards programme - providing a second chance to win, and even greater exposure. Find out more about the HSJ Awards online here.
To find out more about St Joseph’s Hospital Advanced Diagnostics, visit their website.
(Image: St. Joseph's Hospital radiology team, via St. Joseph's Hospital)