Why do Radiographers report?
Reporting (taken to mean a formal clinical evaluation of the study issued by the imaging department) is traditionally in the wheelhouse of the Radiologist. In 2016, 97% of radiology departments in the UK stated that they were unable to meet their diagnostic reporting requirements within their Radiologists’ contracted hours; 78% of these departments use reporting radiographers to address this shortfall.
With the pensionable age population projected to increase by 29% by 2043 and 22% of the Radiologist workforce projected to retire within 5 years, the use of reporting radiographers to address the shortfall in reporting capacity is now widely recognised as a safe and cost-effective solution.
Clinical evaluation is an operator function under IR(ME)R; as such, it can be carried out by anyone who is appropriately trained, assessed as competent and entitled by the Employer. Following completion of a College of Radiographers accredited post-graduate qualification and an appropriate period of preceptorship, Reporting Radiographers have been shown to be able to report with a degree of accuracy comparable to consultant radiologists. Post-training, Reporting Radiographers practice within a locally agreed scope within the Radiology team and are held to the same medicolegal standards as a reasonable, competent Radiologist.
