RCR standards and guidance consultations

The Quality Standard for Imaging (QSI) is fully reviewed every four years to ensure it remains current, relevant and practical. Following the launch of the new QSI scheme in June 2024, the most recent review was deliberately delayed until summer 2025 to allow the scheme to embed.

A comprehensive review has now been completed, with a strong focus on streamlining the standards, improving structure and removing unnecessary duplication.

Key updates to the standard

Restructuring the standards

Feedback from services and learning from QSI assessments showed that the previous structure was not supporting effective use or assessment. In response, the QSI team undertook a substantial reordering of the standards to create a clearer, more logical flow and to streamline the assessment process.

Several standards were merged or separated to improve coherence and readability. Early feedback on the revised structure has been very positive, with stakeholders highlighting the benefits for navigation and application.

Refining the language

The language throughout the standard has been refined to improve clarity, consistency and inclusivity. This includes better representation of the wider imaging workforce and alignment with equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles.

To discourage checklist‑style use, “Indicative inputs” have been renamed “Suggestions”. Notes within the standards now follow a consistent structure:

• Notes for services
• Notes for reviewers
• Links to relevant guidance and webpages
• Links to related sections within the document
  
  

This will support clearer interpretation and more meaningful quality improvement.

Introducing new standards

New standards have been introduced to reflect emerging priorities and challenges in imaging, including:

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Sustainability
• Staff culture
• Staff development
  
  

Have your say

The final draft of the revised Quality Standard for Imaging is now ready for public consultation. We strongly encourage imaging professionals, services, stakeholders and patients to review the draft standards and share their feedback.

Your views are essential in ensuring the QSI remains relevant, practical and reflective of real‑world imaging services. Participating in the consultation is an important opportunity to shape the future of quality improvement in imaging.

Please submit your comments via this form.

The public consultation will close on Wednesday 6 May.