Abstract

Lawrence Lau
Department of Radiology, Vaucluse Hospital, International Radiology Quality Network, Australia

This paper outlines the development, organizational structure, modus operandi of the International Radiology Quality Network (IRQN) and its efforts in advancing quality in radiology. The network was formed in 2002. It is a network of organizations. The network’s objective is to promote quality and safety in radiology through collaboration, experience sharing and mutual assistance.

The members are: American College of Radiology, Asian and Oceanian Society in Radiology, European Association of Radiology, Inter-American College of Radiology, International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists, Japan Radiological Society, Royal College of Radiologists and The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists. The IRQN collaborates with the International Society of Radiology, the Radiological Society of North America and the Global Steering Group in Diagnostic Imaging and Laboratory of the World Health Organization. Therefore, directly and indirectly the network is linked to many national radiology organizations.

The network’s activities include the development of an inventory of quality resources to be shared and the development of a quality awareness program by contributing to quality segments in conferences. In 2006, it will participate in the International Congress of Radiology and the Asian Oceanian Congress of Radiology. It will be a collaborating organization with the International Atomic Energy Agency in the Quality Assurance and New Techniques in Radiation Medicine Conference. The network’s two current initiatives will be discussed: international clinical teleradiology standards and the “Quality Improvement in Practices” Program.

With an increasing demand for more and high quality radiology services from consumers, referrers, insurers and payers, it is important for the profession to have a long term quality plan. Following the establishment of its basic infrastructure, the IRQN is getting ready to play a facilitating role to guide, advise and support radiology organizations in advancing quality and safety in radiology.