I hope you have managed to take some leave this summer or at least have some planned for the very near future. I managed some holiday at home and in the Lake District which was great. Unfortunately during my holiday my father was seriously unwell and admitted to hospital. It was really interesting seeing healthcare from the other side of the fence. I found it very hard to find out how my father was – phones was frequently not answered and when they were very limited information was given. The reason I am telling you this is that it has made me realise how important our communication is with relatives and carers. This is now more important than ever due to limited visiting opportunities. We should make sure that we do answer phones and are as helpful as we can be to those who need information from us and advice. At this time while the NHS is under enormous pressure we should not cut our communication as a coping mechanism to find extra capacity.

In our nuclear medicine department in Bath this week we have performed the first 3D dynamic SPECT-CT Mag 3 renogram in the world. This is an interesting development as the paradigm is now shifting in SPECT-CT to easy whole body acquisition and dynamic SPECT. It will be exciting to see where this technology will have the greatest value in improving diagnosis. 

The BNMS is continuing to press for technologist registration and we continue to have dialogue with NHSE and have support from the RCR. Our view is that this will provide the professional recognition that technologists rightly deserve and enhance their career opportunities within the NHS and beyond.

The virtual September BNMS meeting has a great programme and has already attracted a large number of registrants so I urge you not miss out and attend! Plans are now crystallising for our 2022 Spring meeting in Glasgow which I am sure will be also be amazing but will have the added dimension of being able to socialise and network in person – something I am really looking forward to!

Finally, I would like to thank you all for the wonderful work you are doing for our patients and the support you give to the BNMS. There is of course lots more to do but we should not lose sight of the great work that is currently being achieved.

Prof Richard Graham

BNMS President