New coronavirus protection information for radiology patients

The RCR has worked with the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR) to produce guidance for patients coming to hospital for imaging and interventional radiology procedures. 

The advice leaflet, Protecting people attending for imaging tests or interventional radiology procedures, details the new arrangements hospital sites are putting in place to protect visiting patients from coronavirus.

It is understandable that some people may be worried about the risk of coronavirus infection when visiting hospital for a scan or procedure, and the joint RCR-SCoR advice has been created to help reassure and inform patients.    

The leaflet explains that hospitals have put in place special measures to scan and treat patients with coronavirus separately, and reminds patients of new Government rules that ask all patients coming to hospital to wear a face covering or mask. 

It covers additional protective precautions that patients will see, including being asked about coronavirus symptoms and having their temperature checked, as well as new access routes, spacing around the imaging department and waiting areas and staff wearing personal protective equipment.   

RCR Vice President for Clinical Radiology Dr Caroline Rubin helped create the patient leaflet. 

She said:

“It is understandable that patients – many of whom may also be anxious after waiting a long time to hear about their imaging or interventional appointment - might have worries about visiting the hospital during the coronavirus pandemic.

“We want to reassure anyone visiting a hospital that radiology teams are doing everything they can to keep you safe from the virus. 

“New protection measures are likely to include assessing you as you arrive, minimising contact in waiting areas and potentially asking you to wait to be called in, as well as altering entry and exit points within the imaging department to keep people appropriately distanced.  

“We would like to urge patients to come for your arranged appointment, and don’t forget to bring a face covering or mask to wear while you visit. Please do not hesitate to contact your radiology department if you have any concerns.”