6July 2016

Richard Evans delivers live webinar on the

present and future of radiography services

Richard Evans OBE, CEO of the Society and College of Radiographers, leads online debate as BIR celebrates two years of live and on-demand webinars

An audience of radiographers and radiography managers and radiologists from across the world tuned in to take part in a free live online discussion called “Just do it all: Why we can’t afford to drop any of the balls in radiology”.

In a fascinating presentation, cleverly illustrated, Richard covered the vital topics of strategic and operational pressures on services, the role of the professionalbodies and membership organisations as well as options for the future. He drew attention to current pressures in the UK and posed poignant and controversial questions to participants, who were able to respond live through an online poll. He asked if activity relates to demand and if some of the work undertaken is actually necessary as well as offering suggestions for tackling these challenges.

Richard outlined some of the real challenges facing radiology but also drew attention to many of the positive aspects of the profession including good leadership, the clinical authority of radiology consultants and a strong ethos of team working. Professional bodies have a pivotal role in supporting the workforce and for encouraging a spirit of openness about standards and quality, he said.

Looking to the future, he envisaged a time when machines will give guidance on diagnosis and when it will be the multidisciplinary team that decides on the method of diagnosis, not the referrer, which was debated by participants.

The webinar was popular with participants with one commenting “I like the fact it starts a discussion amongst various people from around the world.”

Richard Evans said “I was flattered to be asked to present this webinar for the BIR and very pleased that it seems to have gone down so well. I am much more used to speaking to a visible audience and was a little unnerved to present to a camera in an empty room. However, the stream of comments and questions, plus the engagement with the polls in the presentation were reassuring evidence that real people were involved.”

Dr Sarah Adibi, joint Head of Education at the BIR, said “This is a must-see webinar for all radiology managers and radiographers interested in the state of their profession. The content is thought-provoking and will stimulate interesting debate amongst teams. We extend a big thank you to Richard for giving us this fascinating overview”.

The webinar is available to view on-demand, and at no cost for a limited period, on the BIR website. The webinar is endorsed by the SCoR (CPDNow) and accredited by the Royal College of Radiologists (1 CPD point). Participants must download a self reflection form to gain accreditation. View the webinar here:

To see the forthcoming programme of free live webinars visit:

Ends

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

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London EC1M 4DG

Tel. 020 3668 2224

Mobile 07963 200147 (out of office hours)