Terminology Update
The second edition of the Multi-professional Framework for Advanced Practice (2025) replaces the term ‘advanced clinical practice’ with ‘advanced practice’ to better reflect the broad range of professional contexts in which advanced level work occurs. Removing ‘clinical’ makes the language more inclusive, recognising that advanced practice extends beyond purely clinical settings. The term ‘advanced practitioner’ serves as an umbrella title for professionals working autonomously at this level across health and care roles. While terminology has evolved, the four pillars of advanced practice, including the clinical practice pillar, remain unchanged.
Although this change is reflected in the terminology used to describe advanced practice, university awards currently remain unchanged and retain the title ‘Advanced Clinical Practice’.
Advanced practice is delivered by experienced, registered health and care practitioners. It is a level of practice characterised by a high degree of autonomy and complex decision making. This is underpinned by a master’s level award or equivalent that encompasses the four pillars of clinical practice, leadership and management, education and research, with demonstration of core capabilities and area specific clinical competence.
Advanced practice embodies the ability to manage clinical care in partnership with individuals, families and carers. It includes the analysis and synthesis of complex problems across a range of settings, enabling innovative solutions to enhance people’s experience and improve outcomes.
The AP definition has been developed to provide clarity for employers, service leads, education providers and healthcare professionals, as well as potential APs practising at an advanced level. The definition serves to support a consistent title and recognises the increasing use of such roles in England.