22 September 2015
The British Institute of Radiology (BIR) response to the Government’s
proposal for patients to have diagnostic test results within 28 days of referral
The BIR welcomes the proposal announced by the Secretary of State for Health
for 95% of patients to have the results of diagnostic tests within 28 days of
referral, by 2020.
However, this ambitious target can only be achieved by sustained capital
investment in equipment replacement programmes and an adequate workforce
of appropriately trained radiologists, radiographers, medical physicists, and
support workers to perform, interpret and support investigations. Furthermore, it
is vital that follow up treatments and therapy services are appropriately equipped
to cope with this extra demand.
Dr David Wilson, President of the BIR said “It is vital that we keep the agonising
waiting time for patients who have been referred for a diagnostic test to an
absolute minimum. But this cannot be achieved without more staff, investment in
updated equipment, education and training to optimise the advances in imaging
equipment.”
“It is also crucial that when a patient is diagnosed with cancer, we are able to
follow through with appropriate services and therapies. This was highlighted in a
recent evaluation of imaging capacity across the NHS in England, by Cancer
Research UK”1.
Early diagnosis is a key element and one of the recommendations of the
Independent Cancer Taskforce2 strategy to achieve world class cancer outcomes
for England. Quicker diagnosis of cancer often leads to improved outcomes, and
minimising the test result waiting time reduces patient anxiety.
Notes to Editors
About The British Institute of Radiology

The British Institute of Radiology (BIR) is an independent multidisciplinary organisation, and
a registered charity, whose membership is open to everyone with an interest in radiology
and radiation oncology.

The British Institute of Radiology is the oldest radiological society in the world.

We strive to ensure that the potential of image science and radiation technology to prevent,
detect and combat disease is fully realised. We believe in the importance of research and
education, and we promote collaboration and the sharing of knowledge and understanding.

To help fulfil our aims, we undertake a wide range of activities, including publishing, the
organisation of scientific meetings and conferences and the provision of library and
information services.
Registered Charity No: 215869
For information about this release please contact:
Carole Cross
Communications Manager
1
Horizon Scanning: An evaluation of imaging capacity across the NHS in England
2
Achieving world-class cancer outcomes: a strategy for England 2015-2020
Ends
48-50 St John Street
London EC1M 4DG
Tel. 020 3668 2224 carole.cross@bir.org.uk www.bir.org.uk
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