Useful Links and Further Information

Allied Health Professional (AHPs) is the name given to group of specialist roles in modern healthcare. These roles include:

• Art Therapist: Art therapists use the mediums of music, art and drama for alternative treatment programmes for individuals unable to express themselves or behave within society. Often used for those with learning disabilities (Autism for example)or those suffering with mental illness (Bi-polor, Depression etc)

• Clinical Psychologist: Clinical Psychologists provide treatment to those who are a threat to themselves usually those with mental health illness (eating disorders, depression etc)

• Dietitian: A Dietician provides practical advice and information to promote healthy lifestyles through healthy eating. In particular Dieticians treat those who require specialist diets due to major surgery, cancer, eating disorders etc.
  

• Non-Clinical Psychologist: Non-Clinical Pyschologists are similar to Clinical Psychologists however they use their scientific knowledge to improve the behaviour of groups and individuals who suffer with chronic problems and illness. Usually through councelling or forensic science.
  

• Occuaptional Therapist: An Occupational Therapist deal with psycological, social and physical difficulties caused by illness, disability and injury in order for them to achieve a higher standard of living. Occupational Therapists are important in the transition from hospital to home and community care. 

• Orthopotist: An orthopotist is an AHP who provides treatment for those who suffer with conditions that inpair eye movement and co-ordination. Generally Orthopotists treat children and those who have suffered stroke, or injury.
  

• Physiotherapist: A Physiotherapist treats people of all ages who suffer with physical problems caused by injury, illness, or ageing. Physiotherapists work in a variety of settings including hospitals, health centres and the community.
  

• Podiatrist (nee Chiropodist): Podiatrists treat conditions that affect the ankle and foot in a variety of settings including care homes and community settings.
  

• Orthotist / Prosthetist: Orthotists provide solutions for individuals who require aids such as splints and braces this will include designing and maintanence of the orthosis. Prothetists design and fit artificial limb replacements for those who have lost or were born without a limb.

• Psychotherapist: A Psychotherapist is an AHP who works with a client to tackle their mental heal and physical health issues through a variety of methods. Child Psychotherapy is an extremely popular occupation within which you would treat children dealing with family breakdown, eating disorder, depression etc.

• Radiographer: Radiography is the back bone of modern medicine. Radiographers use Ultrasound, X-ray and Imaging to establish diagnosis and treatments available to a patient. Radiographers also use radiation to treat a variety of cancers and diseases. 

• Speech and Language Therapist: (SLTs) Provide therapy for those with speech, eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties, enabling patients to achieve an understanding of their needs and provide a positive outcome. 

• Operating Department Practioner: (ODPs) Work in the operating theatre and surgical wards providing assistance to the surgical team through the preparation of equipment and instruments whilst monitoring the condition of the patient from the moment they enter the theatre through to completion of the operation.
  

Each of the AHP roles require higher education with a variety of pathways on offer for you to become qualified.

If you're an International candidate then you will need to be registered with the Health Professionals Council and have a Visa/Permit to work within the UK in your chosen profession.

For further information on the educational options and International requirements please click the links...

Health Professions Council: www.hpc-uk.org/

UCAS: www.ucas.ac.uk