Workforce issues in breast imaging: the consultant radiographer's perspective

In my experience the consultant radiographer within the breast services provides a similar role and clinical level of responsibility as that of the medical breast specialist. All professionals within such a role require the knowledge, skills and expertise to provide a high quality of service for all its users.

The position has provided a key person who is used as a supportive resource for all the members of the multidisciplinary team. The consultant radiographer role has helped to enhance communication not only within the team, but also for the clients and patients and across other service boundaries.

It has helped to promote the service and the sharing of good practice within the service, which in turn will enrich the service as a whole. Recruitment and retention of the staff is essential to the continued success of the service. The new training and educational pathways and recognition of the staff can only be of benefit to the service.