Top radiographer urges radiologists to work in partnership

The incoming president of the U.K. Society and College of Radiographers has set the tone for her year in office by calling for improved multidisciplinary teamwork between medics and health professionals.

"The keyword is ‘team'-not each professional group working within their own boundaries for their own betterment-but truly working in partnership to provide effective services," said Sandie Mathers, a researcher for NHS Grampian and a radiographer at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, at her inauguration.

"If conflict exists, this must be addressed, talked about, and solutions found, not ignored and left to fester as this only makes the situation worse. We are all there for the good of our patients and there is plenty of work for us all," she said.

She called upon radiologists to work with radiographers to provide safe, efficient, and timely service.

"Radiography has moved on and radiographers have set their sights high. We are no longer the handmaidens mopping the fevered brow," she said. "Radiographers and radiologists need to come together, pull together, and work together in order to provide a service for the most important people who come through our doors every day."

She added a warning against allowing technology to come between radiographers and patients.

The patient is not the medium by which you demonstrate what the technology can do," she said.

Graham McKenzie, former strategic development manager at NHS Grampian, described Sandie as a great and influential ambassador for the profession.

"To many people in radiography, her name is synonymous with research and a commitment to improving services to patients," he said.

The society's U.K. council have elected Jackie Hughes to the post of vice-president. Jackie will step into the shoes of Sue Johnson, who becomes president-elect for 2011-12.

For further information, contact Dominic Deeson on 01795 535468 or 0795 784 5238.