The 2nd National Conference for Radiology Managers was held recently at Kings Place, London, where the theme for the day was the thought-provoking “Chasing the end of the rainbow – delivering high quality imaging services in the rapidly changing NHS.”
Organisers of the event reported increased attendance over 2011, with feedback from the day being excellent, many delegates saying they felt more certain of the action they need to take in the future. With networking being equally important as the formal programme, the general consensus was that in difficult and challenging times, networking including sharing problems and issues helped delegates and gave them reassurance. One person commented, “This is definitely a dual purpose event. I came last year, but this year’s meeting has been even better – I’ve made a several contacts and also shared experiences. It’s been a really useful day.”
Another attendee said she had been reassured by what she heard. “We got some good detail on commissioning and it’s encouraging to find that we’re achieving a lot of what we should be at this stage.” Continuing, “You work so much in isolation in your own trust; you have no idea where you fit into the bigger picture.”
Commenting on the day, Richard Evans Chief Executive Officer, SOR & CoR said, “The conference was extremely successful with a very positive response from delegates, which shone through in the engagement shown throughout the day. In fact, a number of individuals I spoke to were able to identify real change they would be implementing in their own services as a result of attending the conference. Delegates seem to have gone away feeling more positive and optimistic having had the opportunity to meet like-minded colleagues in a relaxed and encouraging environment.”
John Atwill, Managing Director, Philips Healthcare UK also endorsed the conference saying, “We were delighted to work with the Society and College of Radiographers on this important event. When times are changing as rapidly as they currently are, having the opportunity to take time out of a busy schedule to keep up-to-date and to share with and learn from colleagues about how they are tackling difficult issues is crucial.”
The day opened with a keynote address from Professor Erika Denton, national clinical director for imaging at the Department of Health, speaking on “Policy into practice – how can high quality imaging services be achieved in the rapidly changing NHS?” In a hard-hitting speech, reminding people that the UK remains in the bottom half of international league tables for the number of diagnostic imaging procedures per head of population, Professor Denton highlighted collaboration and rapid progression into 24/7 working as being the key to achieving high quality imaging services in the reformed NHS, saying “We can’t just sit in a darkened
room, taking pictures and reporting.” She told the conference that there were huge advantages to embracing different opening hours, stating that the need for change was driven by the need to reduce costs, balance demand and capacity, reduce length of pathways, length of stay and waiting times – because that’s what the patient wants. She advised managers to communicate with commissioning groups, learn the language that works and begin to build business cases with clinical colleagues, saying “We need our colleagues to come with us.”
The morning sessions then covered some specific topics including Andrew Foster, Chief Executive, Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Trust speaking on “What will make the CEO read the Radiology Plan?” Marie Whitaker, Trading Manager Capital Planning NHS Supply Chain talking about “Managed Equipment Services – NHS Supply Chain perspective”, and Dr, Steve Mowle, FRCGP, Vice-Chair of Council of the Royal College of General Practitioners, giving an “Update on GP commissioning.” Dr. Mowle highlighted, “If a private provider can deliver in 48 hours and they are cheaper than the local trust who takes more than 7 days to provide a report, the work will go to the provider.”
The afternoon session opened with a series of case studies demonstrating change in action. Lyn McKay, radiology general manager at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust offered a cautionary tale of their experiences with GP commissioning and Colin Fell, business manager, Radiological Sciences Directorate at Kent & Canterbury Hospital then described introducing 24/7 service delivery. Colin stated “Setting-up and managing a 24/7 service is a long-winded process. However, we’ve seen a reduction in waiting times, a reduction in patients’ length of stay, improved capacity and higher productivity. Staff benefits include improved work/life balance and a predictable working pattern.”
Dr. Graham Hoadley, consultant radiologist, National Clinical Lead for service improvement at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust then gave an overview of the ISAS accreditation process, advising “Don’t go into it blind. It is a long and complicated process but the outcomes are excellent.”
The case studies concluded with Tony Corkett, Business Unit Director of Amor Group presenting ‘Radiology Benchmarking: marking effective use of your information and data to improve your service.” The day closed with a light-hearted presentation, but with a serious message, “Your investment in you” by Lynne Kennedy, head of education and leadership at True2 Leadership Ltd.
