Richard Evans, CEO of the Society of Radiographers, was interviewed earlier this month (September 12) on the AXREM Insights Podcast.
Conversation with hosts Sally Edgington and Melanie Johnson focused on his journey into radiography, his viral encounter with popstar Dua Lipa, and what the SoR’s priorities are for members going forward.
Mr Evans also shared his perspective on the future of the profession as technology advances and roles expand, and why he believes radiographers will be able to adapt.
‘Making a difference’
“I am incredibly fortunate to still be involved with radiography and making a difference,” he said. “I had imposter syndrome for quite a while – I’m used to it now, after 20 years – but what a great privilege it is to do this. I am able to continue in my profession, to make a difference for patients by making a difference for radiographers.
“Making a difference is what always got me out of bed. Even when I was a porter, I felt this was something I could do and make a difference, day by day. That’s what floats my boat.”
Starting more than 40 years ago in the NHS as a hospital porter, Mr Evans was first posted in the X-Ray department – where he got a firsthand look at radiography in action. That made up his mind that he wanted to study radiography.
‘I just had fun’
Interviewers also touched on Mr Evans’ viral celebrity moment with Dua Lipa, which he described as being “exactly as it looks”.
He said: “I was completely unaware of what was going to happen. They picked me presumably because I looked out of touch and geeky. I was ambushed – on any other day I might have said I was far too busy to do this. All I did was have fun.
“What was really amazing was the way the radiography and radiology community responded to the social media storm. I saw radiographers picking this up, and the BBC got back in touch – it was great. The radiography community made the opportunity to promote the profession, and to celebrate that power we have as a community to blow our own trumpet. We don’t do that enough.
“I was very touched and moved by that. Reflecting on it, the power we’ve got when we start saying this is us, this is what we do, is incredible.”
Mr Evans did, however, lament his lack of invitation to Glastonbury.
The challenges ahead
When asked what he views as the biggest challenges facing the profession, Mr Evans emphasised the importance of tackling the constrained workforce situation.
“Of course it’s great radiographers are in demand, that’s a good thing. But there’s been a gradual decline in relative workforce numbers. Seeing that turned around has got to be at the core of our priorities,” he explained.
Fortunately, the SoR has already had early responses from the Secretary of State requesting meeting, and the Society has a new strategy in preparation, due to launch in early autumn.
The strategy will cover both the current crisis, and how to build a workforce fit for the future.
Radiography into the future
Mr Evans also emphasised that technological change is the “bread and butter” of radiography. He explained that over the course of his career things have changed immensely, but added that the profession adapts all the time.
“Radiographers are really good at that,” he said.
AI will be part of these changes, Mr Evans said, but the fundamental point of caring for patients will always remain.
He added: “There are going to be great opportunities for radiographers to get involved with patient journeys, maybe even helping design and guide patients through their healthcare journey. All health professionals have opportunities to take a greater role in that.
“We believe a high level of professionalism and ever-advancing roles, overlapping with other team members and working in closer collaboration, is going to be the driver into the future.”
AXREM is the UK trade association representing the interests of suppliers of diagnostic medical imaging, radiotherapy, healthcare IT and care equipment including patient monitoring in the UK.
Find the podcast here.
(Image: Richard Evans)