NHS Wales faces critical radiologist shortage as cancer patients deteriorate waiting for scans

NHS Wales faces a critical 28% shortage of radiologists, leaving the health service 88 doctors short and causing cancer patients' conditions to deteriorate while awaiting diagnostic scans. North and west Wales report a 42% consultant shortfall compared to 22% in south Wales, driven by widespread recruitment freezes. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is actively recruiting and using third-party providers to reduce scan delays, while clinicians express concern over unread scan reports.

Extent of the radiology workforce shortage in Wales

• ▪The radiology workforce in Wales grew by 1.1% in 2024, far below the United Kingdom average growth rate of 5%.
• ▪Wales has more radiology departments affected by recruitment freezes than any other region in the United Kingdom.
• ▪The Royal College of Radiologists stated that NHS Wales faces a shortage of 88 radiologists, representing a 28% shortfall.
• ▪Data from the Royal College of Radiologists' 2025 report showed a 42% consultant radiologist shortfall in north and west Wales compared to 22% in south Wales.

Royal College of Radiologists on consequences for care

• ▪The Royal College of Radiologists reported for the first time that cancer patients in Wales are experiencing deteriorating health conditions while waiting for diagnostic scans.
• ▪Dr. Owen Nicholas, chair of the Welsh committee for the Royal College of Radiologists, stated that radiologist shortages force clinicians to cancel appointments or meet anxious patients without scan reports.

Cancer patients on the impact of scan delays

• ▪Karen Jones, a Welsh cancer patient treated for breast and colon cancer, stated that waiting for scan results leaves patients in severe emotional distress and uncertainty.
• ▪Beverly Scott, a Gwynedd cancer support group member diagnosed with ovarian and peritoneal cancer 14 years ago, stated that scan delays risk allowing her stable cancer to spread unnoticed, making subsequent treatments ineffective.

Betsi Cadwaladr University health board responses to shortages

• ▪Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board introduced nurse-led clinics and specialist metastatic nurse teams to maintain oncology care during staffing shortages.
• ▪Clara Day, executive medical director at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, stated that partnering with a third-party provider reduced wait times for scans and results starting in April 2026.
• ▪Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board in north Wales stated it is actively recruiting radiology and oncology personnel while expanding ties with the North Wales Medical School.