Written By: Raj Gorsia on 29th July 2025
Breast NewsThe demand for diagnostic and medical imaging in the NHS has never been higher. More patients are being referred, and waiting lists are getting longer.
Some imaging waits are now over six weeks. More than 1.6 million patients are waiting for important scans. This shows more NHS capacity is urgently needed.
David Jackson, Assistant Service Manager, says: "For a qualified radiographer, insourcing can provide a great way to utilise their skills and help make a real impact on NHS waiting lists.
While doing so, it also possible to gain experience of working with different trusts, which can help to become a more conscientious practitioner. Insourcing also offers flexible working arrangements as well as attractive rates of pay."
Insourcing is when NHS Trusts hire outside clinical teams to work on trust sites. Depending on the modality, these may be static or mobile units. Capacity to the NHS is increased by insourcing teams using trust equipment that would otherwise be idle. Most commonly this would be at weekends or evenings.
Insourcing keeps patient care within the NHS. This presents the NHS with a more cost effective alternative to outsourcing and ensures that NHS trusts retain control of a patient's care. It also means patients not having to seek assistance for ultrasound imaging through private clinics.
Radiographers receive a full orientation in local processes and protocols and work in accordance with local policies. They are supported by the local substantive team where required and the insourcing organisation's clinical leads.
Radiographers often choose to insource work because it helps them grow professionally. This work exposes them to different clinical settings and reporting procedures, which improves their clinical skills.
Flexibility is a big draw. Insourcing lets radiographers pick extra shifts that fit around their main NHS or private jobs. Many also appreciate the quick effect they can have on waiting times and patient care.
Many also enjoy working with insourcing teams and sharing their experiences with other experienced practitioners. Through working on insourcing projects, it is possible to widen a professional network. Rates of pay for insourcing are also competitive to reflect the can-do mentality that insourcing projects require.
Successful insourcing radiographers are highly skilled and adaptable, capable of quickly integrating into different NHS departments. They are quality-driven, consistently prioritising patient care and safety even when working in high-pressure environments.
Good teamwork is important. Insourcing professionals need to communicate well and respect local processes. They must work together with permanent NHS staff. Trustworthiness and professionalism are also key: NHS Trusts depend on reliable insourcing teams to deliver high-quality diagnostic imaging consistently.
Your Medical Services (YMS) chooses radiographers who meet high standards. We also believe in developing honest and open communication with our team, which helps us to build long-term partnerships. Some of our team have now supported us for more than 5 years or more.
For NHS Trusts, insourcing is a practical and effective solution to manage rising demand and reduce waiting times. By adding more diagnostic services in existing facilities, Trusts can offer faster access to diagnostic imaging.
"These tests include may include Non-Obstetric Ultrasound, Mammography, MRI, CT, X-ray and plain film. Insourcing solutions are fully flexible with the potential to provide 12 hour shifts 7 day a week if required. An insourcing organisation seeks to agree what throughput is required with the trust and then will plan capacity accordingly." says David.
Insourcing helps reduce pressure on main NHS teams. It supports plans for elective recovery. It also makes better use of hospital facilities in the evenings and on weekends. It is a more cost effective alternative to outsourcing, which enables a trust to retain control of a patient's care.
Insourcing plays a key role in increasing capacity. NHS leaders are focusing on initiatives like Community Diagnostic Centres and longer hours. These efforts aim to tackle long waiting times.
The Society of Radiographers (SoR) is the main professional group and union for radiographers in the UK. They set standards and offer career advice and support.
Staying connected with SoR is important for radiographers. It helps them stay updated on changes in their field and ensure best practices. Globally, groups like the International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists (ISRRT) and the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) offer resources and training. They also provide support for radiographers who want to improve their skills.
Zoe Josling, Clinical Quality Manager at YMS explains,"YMS are a CQC registered provider. This ensures that we are able to provide robust assistance and oversight of any concerns, complaints or incidents that may arise. The applies whether we are providing a full team or an individual worker.
We have a Clinical Governance process which is supported by our Clinical Leads across each speciality.
We manage all processes in line with Getting it Right First Time (GRIFT) and the Patient Safety Incident Reporting Framework (PSIRF) while ensuring all involved are supported and treated fairly."
Radiographers interested in insourcing should ensure their HCPC registration and competencies are current and up to date. Working with a trusted provider like Your Medical Services is important for a good experience.
Radiographers should be ready to adjust to the systems and workflows of different NHS Trusts. It is important to remember that each trust will have its own SOPs and local rules, which will need to be followed.
Understanding why they want to insource is important. It could be for professional growth, flexibility, or to help reduce patient waits. This clarity can help radiographers make the most of this career choice.
Radiographers are essential to the smooth running of NHS imaging services. Insourcing helps Trusts handle rising demand and reduce backlogs. It also gives radiographers a rewarding way to use their skills.
By working with experienced providers like YMS, radiographers can help patients and services. They can also grow their careers in a flexible and professional setting.
Written By: Nick MacDonald on 20th February 2025
The Government has announced a new Partnership Agreement to reduce NHS waiting lists. As an independent provider, YMS supports this collaboration, ensuring patients receive timely, high-quality care.
All Professions NewsTo find out more about how Your Medical Services can support your organisation, contact us today.