Overview
- The RCR census published June 17, 2026 found the UK has about 32% fewer radiologists and 17% fewer clinical oncologists than needed to meet current demand.
- Eight in ten radiology leaders and half of cancer leaders told the RCR that shortages are causing patients' conditions to worsen and delaying diagnosis and treatment.
- Recruitment freezes have doubled in a year, pushing trusts to rely on expensive outsourcing, locums and overtime and leading to about £362 million spent on radiology outsourcing and temporary cover in 2025.
- Shortfalls are most severe in rural and deprived areas, with North and West Wales and parts of Northern Ireland reporting the largest percentage gaps and the longest waits for scans and treatment starts.
- Health departments have pledged incremental measures such as extra training places and an Imaging Academy, but those steps will scale slowly and are unlikely to close current gaps quickly, leaving ongoing risk to patients.