RADIOLOGY

All new radiology trainees (ST1) receive training at the East of England Imaging Academy for the first rotation (4 months). This is a dedicated training facility which gives an introduction to radiology training. It teaches on important topics such as anatomy and physics. ST1 trainees will then start training in the hospital setting from the 2nd rotation (December).

The radiology departments at Ipswich and Colchester hospital provide a comprehensive reporting and vetting service for a wide range of imaging modalities including ultrasound, x-ray, CT and MRI. Both sites also have active interventional radiology departments.

The radiology teams at both hospitals comprise of a large multidisciplinary team of consultants, higher specialty trainees, radiographers, imaging assistants and nurses. At Ipswich hospital, there are 4 radiology higher specialty registrars with training numbers. At Colchester Hospital, there are 3 higher specialty trainees with training numbers. Trainees report feeling well supported by the consultants within the departments.

Once trainees return to the hospital, the majority of their time is spent within the radiology department. A typical day for a trainee involves reporting a variety of scans including x-rays, CT scans, MRI and nuclear medicine studies.

It also includes performing and reporting a range of ultrasound scans which enable them to gain confidence with this imaging modality. During duty sessions, the trainee will also be involved in vetting and approving scans. All reports are checked by consultants before verification which creates a supportive environment to learn in

There is weekly teaching for trainees. The main focus of these teaching sessions is to review and discuss interesting cases, different pathologies and management plans. Trainees will also have the opportunity to present during these sessions. In addition, the radiology team participates in MDT discussions for a number of specialties

. There are plenty of training opportunities available within the interventional radiology department which conducts a high volume of procedures including ultrasound or CT guided biopsies, drain insertions and ablations.

I am very fortunate to be a part of such an amazing team in Radiology department at Ipswich Hospital.

I have learnt a lot from all members of the team during my training and I have been developing skills in a range of different modalities such as plain films, ultrasound, CT and MRI by interpreting and discussing challenging cases with consultants and experienced members of the team.

Every day I have the opportunity to learn different pathologies through a variety of imaging modalities in

1-2-1 and small group sessions and regular well-balanced teaching.

The most enjoyable part of the job is to contribute to the correct diagnosis for a patient, which is the main reason why I chose this field in the first place.

We also have a great opportunities to work on different audit and quality improvement projects to improve the performance of the department.

Dr Simin Arfa, ST2 Ipswich Hospital