In reply: Peereboom appears to ignore reality. Recent news media1 gave an insight into the state of radiological services at some Sydney teaching hospitals. Thousands of images have never been seen by a radiologist. Yet, all of those images were seen by radiographers, who also saw the patients. I am frequently asked by doctors for my opinion about radiographs. At times, I volunteer my opinion to junior doctors and general practitoners. Thirty years of experience tells me that, if I don’t, they miss abnormalities, delaying treatment and decreasing the quality of care.
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- Department of Rural Health, University of Newcastle, Tamworth, NSW.