UK Multiple Sclerosis service audit of 70 centres: access to neuroradiology

Abstract

IntroductionThe UK MS service audit builds upon GIRFT’s recommendation for disease-specific data. Here, we address access to Neuroradiology and Neuroradiologists.AimTo document the variability in access to Neuroradiology support, for UK MS Teams.MethodsWe asked all MS services to complete service questionnaires, supplemented with individual clinician interviews. Specifically, we asked about access to specialist Neuroradiologists, timeliness, out- sourcing and quality of MRI reporting and impact upon care.Results70 MS centres contributed MS service data, encompassing over 105522 people with MS, ≈85% of the UK MS population.76% of respondents felt at least half of MRI scans were reported in a timely manner, however 46% felt lack of access to MRI impacted upon the care they could offer. 68% of centres had scans reported by a neuroradiologist, however 63% of centres outsourced reporting and 69% of centres were concerned about reporting quality and the necessity for re-reporting.ConclusionsSignificant variability exists in the reporting of MS scans in the UK. This could impact upon access to, and use of, DMTs in centres and is increasingly important, given the availability of high efficacy DMTs, their sequencing and their potential adverse events.We recommend partnership working between MS Teams and Neuroradiologists to maximise dissemina- tion of expertise and minimise inefficiency in access to, reporting and discussion of, MS scans, at local, regional network and national levels.david.rog@srft.nhs.uk