Data from the Royal College of Radiologists’ 2025 clinical radiology census highlights north and west Wales as suffering among the most severe shortages nationwide, exhibiting a 42% deficit in consultant radiologists contrasted with a 22% gap in the south.
North and west Wales face a 42% shortfall in consultant radiologists, compared to the 22% deficit recorded in south Wales.
Regional Staffing Deficits and Recruitment Freezes Across Wales
Figures from the Royal College of Radiologists’ 2025 clinical radiology census show that north and west Wales experience some of the most severe shortages across the UK, featuring a 42% deficit in consultant radiologists that dwarfs the 22% shortfall found in south Wales. This deficit is largely driven by the fact that Welsh radiology departments are subject to more recruitment freezes than any other region in the country. Meanwhile, the overall radiology workforce across Wales expanded by a mere 1.1% in 2024, falling well short of the 5% average seen across the UK.
Clara Day, executive medical director at Betsi Cadwaladr health board in north Wales, acknowledged the gravity of the situation. “We understand the figures can be very worrying for patients,” Day stated, noting that the health board is actively recruiting into both radiology and oncology departments. Day also pointed to strategic initiatives, including strengthened ties with the North Wales Medical School, nurse-led clinics, and newly formed colorectal and breast metastatic nurse specialist teams, designed to maintain service safety and prioritize patient clinical need.
Clinical Impact on Oncological Care and Patient Anxiety
The everyday strain experienced by both doctors and those in their care was detailed by Owen Nicholas, a Swansea-based consultant oncologist who also serves as the chair of the Welsh committee for the Royal College of Radiologists. “It is not getting better and the patients are now getting affected,” Nicholas stated, highlighting the emotional strain of sitting before an anxious patient waiting to learn whether a malignancy has returned or responded to treatment.
“For you to have to say, ‘sorry I don’t know, because I don’t have the report in front of me’, or perhaps you cancel an appointment because a scan report has not come back,” Nicholas explained, emphasizing the burden on both vulnerable individuals and medical staff.
| Region / Metric | Radiologist Shortfall (%) | 2024 Workforce Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|
| North and West Wales | 42% | 1.1% (Wales) |
| South Wales | 22% | 1.1% (Wales) |
| United Kingdom | N/A | 5.0% |
Mitigation Strategies and Monitoring Protocols
To counteract mounting backlogs despite a substantial increase in demand for imaging services, health boards have partnered with a third-party provider. Day noted that this has contributed to a decline in waiting times for scans and results since April, with reporting times closely and consistently monitored.
Contraindications & When to Consult a Doctor
Patients should follow the guidance of their oncology care teams regarding scan reports and clinical appointments.
References
- Royal College of Radiologists. 2025 clinical radiology census.
