Radiological Imaging for non-medical referrers

This protocol covers Non-Medical Referrers (NMR) to request imaging for individuals who are aged 16 years and older and are not on a continued care pathway to North Bristol Trust and University Hospitals Bristol & Weston for imaging.

This document and any arrangements made under it apply to registered healthcare professionals, other than medical doctors or dentists, referring patients for imaging with x-rays or radioactive materials employed by General Practice and Primary Care Networks within the BNSSG area (unless indicated under profession specific).

The purpose of this document is to comply with the requirements of the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposures) Regulations (IRMER) 2017 and its subsequent amendments and revisions, most recently 1st October 2024

The clinical governance and line management of individual Non-Medical Referrers (NMR) remains with the practices and the Acute Trust Imaging Managers. ALMC and GPCB are happy to offer guidance and advice where appropriate.

Please use this protocol in conjunction with the relevant documents required for the onboarding process on this page. Please refer to the REMEDY imaging page found here for more information.

IRMER Training

See 2025 North Bristol NHS Trust/ UHBW Med Physics IRMER training sessions:

  • Tuesday 15th April 2025 10am-12pm
  • Wednesday 16th July 2025 10am-12pm
  • Monday 6th October 2025 10am-12pm

Applicants should contact nmr@nbt.nhs.uk for a Teams link to any one of these courses.

Please keep an eye on REMEDY or email the following: NMR@NBT.NHS.UK and RadiationProtectionTraining@UHBW.nhs.uk if any queries regarding IRMER training.

Protocol & SOP

Protocol for requesting Radiological Examinations
BNSSG SOP for subcontracted NMR
Specific indications for FCP MSK Physios

Onboard Process

Onboarding template for practices

Competency Assessment

Referrer Confirmation of Competence
Imaging Competency Assessment Form

Audit

Audit for Radiological Examinations

TVUSS for FRSH trained Nurses

Individual Non-Medical Healthcare Professional Confirmation of Competence to Request Ultrasound
Protocol For Advanced Practitioners (FRSH
Accredited) Employed By GP Practices Within
The BNSSG Area To Request Ultrasound
Examinations

Webinar – Imaging requesting for Non-Medical Referrers in BNSSG General Practice – update

National Guidance

BNSSG Primary Care FAQ
Equitable access for Advanced Practice roles

Direct Link

REMEDY Page

Direct Link

GP TeamNet Link

Direct Link