30 July 2015
BIR response to Royal College of Radiologists’
national audit of paediatric X-ray services
The report from the Royal College of Radiologists’ paediatric imaging audit is disturbing and
raises concerns over the safety of performing and reporting imaging in children. The NHS
currently relies on already over-stretched general radiologists and radiographers to obtain
and report these images which should be done by specialists.
The current time pressures and clinical work load on these staff mean there is no time for
specialist training and refresher courses to ensure the maintenance of high quality care that
these professionals wish to provide. The lack of recognition of paediatric radiology and
radiography as a subspeciality within the professions and the wider healthcare system also
results in little interest in this vital area outside major centres.
This is a worldwide issue: the two main radiological societies (ESR, RSNA) will this year
highlight the contribution that specialised paediatric radiologists make as part of the
International Day of Radiology.
We support any additional resources (infrastructure or staffing), including technological
advances to improve image transfer to specialist centres (to develop a robust network of
expertise) to ensure the delivery of high quality services for this population.
The RCR report can be downloaded here:
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/auditreport_paediatricrad.pdf
International Day of Radiology http://www.internationaldayofradiology.com/
Ends
Incorporated by Royal Charter
Patron - Her Majesty The Queen
President
Dr David Wilson
MBBS BSc MFSEM FRCP FRCR
Chief Executive
Ms Jacqueline Fowler
BA, MInstF(Cert)
The British Institute of Radiology
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T : +44(0)20 3668 2220
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No. 215869
E : admin@bir.org.uk
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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
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