The Service Review Committee: Royal College of Radiologists. Philosophy, role, and lessons to be learned

The Service Review Committee (SRC) was established by the Board of the Faculty of Clinical Radiology in 2000. At the time, the RCR identified a clear need to respond appropriately and swiftly to requests for review of service provision in clinical radiology departments where trusts were concerned about standards or performance issues. It was recognized by the College that the poorly performing radiologist is often part of a department that is itself dysfunctional, and that sub-optimal performance may often reflect inadequate management, lack of support, overwhelming workload, or inadequate facilities. Following the completion of a range of service reviews during its first 6 years, the SRC recognized that among the reviews there were recurring themes and causes for poorly functioning departments. The committee felt it appropriate to share these with the wider radiological community. In doing so, it is hoped that other departments may recognize their own problems at an early stage and take appropriate steps to prevent any escalation of difficulties.