Radiologist shortage is ‘putting safety at risk’

A SHORTAGE of radiologists in Scotland is putting patient safety at risk, with some cancer patients waiting more than a month for diagnosis and treatment, doctors have warned.

The Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) said Scottish radiology is “on the brink of collapse” due to a combination of chronic vacancies, low trainee numbers and increasing demand.

Clinical radiologists are doctors who interpret X-rays, scans and other medical images to diagnose disease and injury.

Research found the five-year average of unfilled radiology posts in 2015 was 8% and nine in 10 hospitals said they cannot cope with the daily workload .

The RCR said the lack of radiologists specialising in interventional radiology means only two of the 12 health boards currently offer 24-hour cover for emergency minimally invasive pinhole procedures, such as those to stop bleeding after a road traffic accident or after childbirth.

RCR spokesman Dr Grant Baxter, consultant radiologist and chairman of the college’s standing Scottish committee, said: “Having been a doctor for 34 years, I have never seen it as bad as this.

“Scottish radiology is on the brink of collapse, and if that happens there will be no medical diagnoses or surgical operations at all, since none can occur without radiologists interpreting the scans and X-rays. Patient safety is at risk.”

Health Secretary Shona Robison said: “Prompt cancer treatment is vital and that is why we have set rigorous standards in this area. We’re committed to working closely with the NHSto ensure this investment sees the expected increase in the number of specialist radiotherapists.”