UK government launches new MedTech qualifications to fight skills gap

The UK government has launched new qualifications which it says will help plug the skills gap in the MedTech sector.

The Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), which can be taught by colleges, private training providers, and universities, aim to help people into in-demand jobs, including regulatory advisors and technicians working on AI-enabled health devices like wearable tech, imaging or diagnostic tools.

The move comes as the Association of British HealthTech Industries estimates that an extra 70,000 jobs will be needed by 2035 to meet demand across the sector, alongside 75,000 replacements for those leaving the workforce.

The HTQs have been developed through a partnership between leaning companies Skills England and Pearson, as well as the West Midlands Combined Authority.

The government described MedTech as a “powerhouse” in the West Midlands which has over 700 MedTech businesses, employs more than 14,000 people, and generates a turnover of around £6 billion each year.

The qualifications are being launched as the government calls for more cutting-edge medical technology in the NHS to boost productivity and help cut waiting lists.

The government said the qualifications are designed to equip healthcare teams with in-demand technical expertise and give workers an understanding of how digital systems, regulation and testing combine in practice.

“MedTech is transforming healthcare and these new qualifications will make sure people have the skills they need for the jobs of the future,” said baroness Jacqui Smith, minister for skills. “By closing critical skills gaps, we’re not only opening careers for thousands of people – we’re helping the NHS cut waiting lists and deliver better care through innovation.”