Northern Ireland Regional Medical Physics Agency - Department of ...

General Comments
In addition to the points already made in this response, the proposals described in
the consultation document provide an opportunity to embrace a number of additional
aspects such as improved networking across the HPSS in areas including:-
Regional procurement
The purchase of medical equipment requires expertise from a number of sources
such as Regional Supplies, Health Estates and Local Trusts. Legislation and
guidance such as the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (IRMER)
and Medical & Dental Guidance notes describe the role of the Medical Physics
Expert in the procurement, support and ongoing optimisation of specialist equipment
such as that used in diagnostic radiology, nuclear medicine and radiotherapy
equipment. It is the Agency’s view that this role of Medical Physics be formally
recognised as part of the current proposals.
Clinical networks
The formation of managed clinical networks such as that for cancer represent key
tool in the DHSSPS commitment to implementing the Developing Better Services
agenda across Northern Ireland. These networks bring together healthcare
professionals from a range of disciplines to promote and ensure equitable provision
of high quality clinically effective care. The scope of services provided by the
Agency place it in a position where it can actively contribute to these networks. It is
the Agency’s opinion that this should and can continue following its proposed
incorporation into the Belfast Trust.
Regional Initiatives (e.g. Imaging, Radiotherapy Services, Medical Devices).
Medical Physics is ideally placed to provide high quality scientific and technical
expertise, advice and services in support of regional initiatives such as the Regional
Diabetic Retinopathy Screening service. The recent announcement by the Minister
of Health for the provision of radiotherapy services at Altnagelvin Hospital will
require the provision of supporting Medical Physics services. It is the Agency’s view
that the regional role of Medical Physics in the planning and development of such
regional services be formally recognised as part of the current proposals.
Summary
In conclusion, the N I Regional Medical Physics Agency would like to make the
following overarching summary statements:
• The Agency supports the proposal for it to be incorporated into the Belfast
Health & Social Care Trust.
• The regional role and services provided by Medical Physics should be
formally recognized and resourced as part of the new HPSS organisational
arrangements
• It is essential that, following the proposed merger, Medical Physics services
continue to be provided by a single holistic integrated Regional medical
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