The Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) is displeased that the new head of the Yorkshire and Humber School of Radiology is not a radiologist.
Health Education England (HEE) offered the post to an individual who is not medically qualified, and the college was not consulted or involved in the appointment in anyway, according to the RCR.
"We understand that there was no radiologist member of the appointment panel and also that a suitably qualified and experienced consultant radiologist was interviewed for the post," the college wrote in a statement.
The role of the head of a school of radiology includes the management of issues such as trainees in difficulty, trainers about whom concerns are raised, the interface with clinical departments such as the provision of out-of-hours services, the management of reporting discrepancies, radiology service whistleblowing concerns, and the provision of strategic leadership and planning.
"The RCR considers that only consultant radiologists have the skills and experience to command the respect of radiology trainees and trainers in this role," the college noted. "The RCR has unambiguously communicated in writing to HEE that the college does not support this appointment. We have requested an urgent meeting with the local postgraduate dean to explore how the damage caused by this ill-informed and ill-conceived decision can be limited."
