The Society of Radiographers has released a position statement on virtual support technology (VST) within CT and MRI, saying it recognises the potential benefits for staff training and development and improved patient experience.
VST - which is also known as remote operation - can allow for access to, and operation of, CT and MRI by a remote operator from a hub site. This hub can be located in a variety of locations, including a third-party employer’s site or the remote operator’s home.
This technology can allow radiographers to offer remote support to other radiographers performing complex scans in-person, carry out protocol management for multiple sites and take control of scans remotely. In addition, VST can improve the trainee experience by facilitating remote training at the hub site.
The SoR’s position statement on the technology was published following increased interest in its use within CT and MRI. Specifically, the society supports the use of VST for educational purposes “where there are demonstrable benefits to patients”.
To read the position statement in full, click here.
VST “relies on highly experienced and skilled radiographers”
Katie Thompson, president of the Society of Radiographers, emphasised the benefits to patients and staff that this technology provides and urged employers to adhere to a high standard of care and training in their departments.
“VST is not a replacement for appropriately trained staff,” she said. “In fact, it relies on highly experienced and skilled radiographers to be used safely and appropriately.
“Nothing about this technology changes the need for employers to maintain a robust scrutiny of training, education and clinical practice provision that meets all professional regulatory and statutory requirements.
“To ensure the successful implementation of this technology, it is essential that expert radiographers lead the process, providing their specialised knowledge and experience to guide the integration and use of these tools safely and effectively.”
Guidance for departments
In addition to the position statement, the society released an accompanying document outlining the guiding principles for departments implementing VST in CT and MRI.
The document outlines what should be assessed when considering implementing the technology at service level, including:
- The need for VST
- Potential impact on patients, service users and staff
- Governance and service design
- Consent
The full guiding principles document is available here.