To work in clinical physiology, you’ll need the right qualifications. This usually starts with an undergraduate degree in a related healthcare field, such as radiography, medical sciences, or clinical physiology. Many professionals complete a postgraduate certificate or diploma to specialise further.

Clinical physiologists are not governed by a professional body, unlike many other professions within the healthcare sector. However, some clients do require HCPC (The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) | The HCPC), IICMP (IICMP - IICMP) or AHCS (Home - The Academy For Healthcare Science) accreditations for certain roles. For any positions in Ireland, until you are registered with the IICMP, you will be unable to work as a physiologist.

Practical, hands-on experience is vital. You can gain experience in several ways. You can do placements while studying. You can also take entry-level jobs.

Another option is to shadow someone in the NHS or private sector. Employers value practitioners who can work independently and deliver accurate diagnostic results, so confidence in clinical settings is key.

Zak, Lead Associate, advises to gain experience in the NHS initially. Most clients look for this when reviewing your CV for your first locum role. Regardless of experience within the private sector, the client may turn you down in some circumstances if you have no NHS experience.