Work

Impact of the junior doctors' industrial action on the efficiency of a radiology department

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: AIM: Three rounds of industrial action (IA) were carried out by junior doctors in the United Kingdom between March and June 2023. We investigated the impact of radiology registrars undertaking IA on the efficiency of a large teaching hospital's radiology department. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This service evaluation was registered with the local Quality Surveillance Information System and involved analysing data pertaining to the computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, and x-ray studies performed before, during, and after periods of IA. RESULTS: Across the three strike periods, there was a temporary 5-10% reduction in imaging studies, predominantly driven by decreases in x-ray and MRI studies. Urgent CT and MRI studies were reported faster during strikes, particularly for out-of-hours scans. CONCLUSION: Overall, patient safety in CT and MRI reporting remained uncompromised during strikes, and in some areas, the efficiency of the department improved. However, this does not take into account the significant displacement of consultants from non-clinical activities, who volunteered to cover during these IA periods, as well as the impact on other factors such as research output and medical training.

Source: Clinical Radiology

DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2024.09.016

Authors: R.J. Borchert, F. Mohideen, T. Das, H. Addley, T.J. Sadler

Institutions: University of Cambridge, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Healthcare Systems and Challenges

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,200