Turnaround Times

The IBMS is committed to providing efficient and timely services to all our members.

We understand that extended turnaround times in 2024 for registration training portfolios, specialist portfolios, and laboratory training approvals have caused frustration. Addressing these challenges is a top priority for us because we are committed to providing efficient and timely services to all our members.

Current Turnaround Times and Processes

• Registration Training Portfolios
  The average turnaround time is approximately two months, except for applications that require further information or clarification which may take longer.
  
  While your application is being processed, candidates can work with their training officer to plan portfolio evidence using the guidance documents and module descriptors if a training plan is in place.
   
• Specialist Portfolios
  The average turnaround time is around two months, except for applications that require further information or clarification, which may take longer.
  
  Once submitted, candidates can begin preparing evidence with support from their training officer if a support plan in place.
   
• Laboratory Training Approvals
  There are ongoing delays in approving new laboratory training approval applications and re-approvals. To ensure continuity, laboratories with existing IBMS laboratory training approval will be granted ongoing conditional training approval, whilst the re-approval documentation is processed, enabling portfolio applications to be processed without disruption.
  
  Common issues that may cause delays include discrepancies in the laboratory approval training programme template, missing training plans or documentation, and incomplete overarching training documents.
   

Steps We Are Taking

The additional workload from administering integrated degree programme registration training portfolio applications has added complexity to our processes. Moreover, the digital portfolio platforms do not currently integrate with our IT systems, resulting in extra administrative steps.

To address these issues, we are:

• Allocating additional resources to the Education team to manage increased workloads.
• Revising and streamlining workflows to reduce turnaround times.
• Providing members with more regular and clear updates on application status and expected timeframes.
• Replacing our information and membership IT system (CRM) to improve efficiency.
• Integrating the new CRM system with digital portfolio platforms.
   

How You Can Help

To help us process your applications more efficiently, please ensure that application forms are fully completed and submitted by the training officer/manager, that all supporting documentation is provided and easily accessible, and that a copy of the relevant purchase order document (or PO number if already submitted separately) is included.

Our Ongoing Commitment to Transparency

We are committed to improving our communication and providing information on turnaround times. Regular updates will be shared on this page to ensure you have the latest information.

We sincerely apologise for the delays experienced this year and deeply appreciate your patience and understanding. We are working diligently to review and enhance our processes to deliver the high standard of service you deserve.