Mark Leftwich from Philips (left) and SoR CEO Richard Evans celebrating NCRM 2024
Mark Leftwich from Philips and SoR CEO Richard Evans celebrating NCRM 2024
NCRM 2024: ‘Together we’re stronger’
The National Conference for Radiology Managers is an essential gathering of leaders and decision makers. Synergy recaps the 2024 event and explores why it is so important for radiography professionals
By Alex Ballinger
“First, a fascinating set of lectures, diverse topics and a really fantastic keynote,” said Charlotte Beardmore on why radiographers should attend the National Conference for Radiology Managers (NCRM).
“Also, importantly, the collaboration, the networking that happens throughout the day, building those relationships so that you can share solutions to problems and use your successes, and you can learn.
“Together we're stronger.”
Flagship event
Charlotte, executive director for professional policy at the Society of Radiographers, was speaking from the 2024 edition of NCRM, held on 23 May at the Pullman Hotel, St Pancras, London.
The event, a collaboration between the SoR and Philips Healthcare UK, has been developed into the flagship event for radiology managers since its launch in 2011.
This year’s event featured a full day of talks, case studies, networking opportunities and keynotes, including sessions on the workforce of the future, patient experience and inclusivity and embracing AI.
Leading-edge thinking
Richard Evans, CEO of the SoR, told Synergy: “I think for the people who can make it to this event, and for those who come back year after year, the importance of it is to be exposed to some really good practice from people like them.
“The case studies are always really popular – people want to hear how they are dealing with the problems that they face day to day in their job.
“It’s also important, I think, for the conference to be able to supply some leading-edge thinking, some inspiration, some things people maybe haven’t been exposed to before.
“But also a big component of the day is just the chance to be away from the workplace, to recharge, to meet friends and to make some new friends.”
The tap of knowledge
The day opened with an outstanding keynote, titled ‘Why civility matters in our complex world’, delivered by Dr Chris Turner, consultant in emergency medicine and co-founder of the Civility Saves Lives project.
His speech set out how civility in the workplace can help health workers deliver the best possible care for their patients.
Reacting to the keynote session, Charlotte said: “Dr Turner set out that to deliver really good patient care, you really need teams functioning well and you need to give permission to all of your team members to be able to speak up.
“And he gave a great analogy when he talked about an empty swimming pool with taps around it. We each have a tap of knowledge and it's the combination of all of those taps being turned on in a confident way, so people contribute to that big picture.
“You need the combination of all those skills.”
The day continued with a full programme of sessions, including an afternoon keynote from consultant radiographer and clinical academic Nick Woznitza MBE, Dave Tipper, general manager of imaging at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton, and head of radiology at Chesterfield Royal Hospital Colin Ross, who delved into the future of radiology and the impact AI is expected to have.
Another key highlight of NCRM is its exhibition space, connecting radiology managers with industry partners showcasing the latest developments and tech in their fields.
Brands from across the radiology sector presented their exhibition stands to attendees, while the Society of Radiographers also had a stall in the exhibition space to promote its work.
Summing up the 2024 event, Richard said: “It’s important to remember that we’re not alone in the task of managing imaging services in healthcare in the UK – that’s what it’s all about.
“We had a record turnout. It’s a free event and it’s great to be able to offer that with Philips’ help.
“The room looked fuller than it’s ever been before, so it’s just fantastic.”
More about NCRM
NCRM is a collaboration between the SoR and Philips Healthcare UK. Since its launch in 2011 the conference has grown from strength to strength and is now established as the flagship event for radiology managers. The conference held annually in May attracts more than 200 delegates from across the UK. The exhibitors and networking opportunities form a key part of the programme.
The programme is determined each year by a steering committee with representation from Philips, SoR Professional team and radiology service managers.
Dates and venue for NCRM 2025 will be announced in due course.
Read more
Built with Shorthand