Radiology Academy opens its doors to the first intake of trainees

A new generation of specialist doctors this week start training at a ground-breaking Norwich-based academy for diagnostic imaging such as x-rays, CT and MRI scans.

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital's new Radiology Academy, based at the Cotman Centre on the Norwich Research Park, is one of only three institutions in the country (the others are in Leeds and Plymouth) that has been specially created to help increase the number of qualified radiologists nationally.

The first 10 trainees this week embark on a five year training programme to qualify as radiologists. Radiologists are doctors who are highly skilled in diagnosing conditions using images such as x-rays, CT or MRI scans.

All the trainees are specialist registrars who will divide their time between the Cotman Centre and the NNUH.  Much of their learning will be electronically based using state of the art equipment.

The NNUH is already leading the way nationally in imaging (x-ray, MRI and CT) with the use throughout the whole of the NNUH and Cromer of a hi-tech digital imaging system (PACS) which has done away with the 19th century technology of x-ray film. 

Dr Stuart Williams, Director of the Norwich Radiology Academy said “I am looking forward to building on own existing training scheme and radiological expertise to create a great environment in which to teach and practice radiology”.

Dr Jo Keogh, one of the first trainee radiologists, said “The facilities at the new Radiology Academy are outstanding”.

National clinical lead for diagnostic imaging and consultant radiologist at NNUH, Dr Erika Denton said; “The facilities we have here for digital imaging are among the best in Europe and, in tandem with the skills and knowledge of our staff, we are delighted that the Royal College of Radiologists and the Department of Health chose Norwich as home to one of the new Radiology Academies.”