The Royal College of Australian and New Zealand Radiologists (RANZCR) is calling on governments to provide greater workforce support for rural and regional radiology.
RANZCR issued this plea to coincide with the International Day of Radiology (IDOR) on 8 November. The day recognizes the essential role that radiology plays in the patient journey.
According to RANZCR’s internal data, 89% of its clinical radiology members work in major cities, including Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. In New Zealand, 63% of members live in Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington.
“It is critical that we act on the severe maldistribution of radiologists and their vital support staff in non-metropolitan locations,” said RANZCR President Prof. John Slavotinek.
The college plans to work with governments in both Australia and New Zealand to gain more funding for trainee places outside the cities, including through its rural and regional pathway scheme.
