Have UK radiologists embraced the peer learning guidance issued by the Royal College of Radiologists?

To evaluate the practice of Radiology Events and Learning Meetings (REALMs) in the National Health Service Radiology Departments (NHSRDs) and teleradiology companies (TRCs) servicing the UK market.

A national audit measuring the conduct of REALMs against standards derived from the Royal College of Radiologist (RCR) document "Standards for radiology events and learning meetings". Data collection was completed in October 2024.

The response rate was 73 % (146/200) from NHSRDs and 100 % from TRCs (6/6). Most (97 %) NHSRDs and all six TRCs had a REALM. They occurred more frequently within the NHSRD with 72 % conducting 6 or more meetings a year compared to 33 % of TRCs. A REALM coordinator was present in 96 % of NHSRDs and 67 % of TRCs. Feedback to the primary reporter occurred in 85 % of NHSRDs and 83 % of TRCs. Only 33 % of NHSRDs and 50 % of TRCs disseminated learning points to radiologists. Lack of protected time was a barrier to REALM in 33 % of NHSRDs and remote working an issue for TRCs (50 %). REALM was still used for governance processes in 39 % of NHSRDs in contravention of the RCR guidance.

There was excellent uptake of the REALM in both NHSRDs and TRCs. The frequency of meetings was higher, and the appointment of a formal REALM chair was more likely in NHSRDs compared to TRCs. Dissemination of the learning points from REALM, ensuring there is protected time for these meetings, and keeping REALM separate to governance processes were some of the key areas identified to ameliorate.