Private equity-backed teleradiology group offers insights from global survey of 700 rads

Radiologists from across the globe are suggesting possible remedies to address some of the specialty's biggest headaches. 

Private equity-backed imaging group Everlight Radiology revealed the findings in a new report released Monday. The organization hired research firm Censuswide to administer the anonymous, 19-question survey to over 700 radiologists across 50 countries in September and October. 

About 53% of respondents cited burnout as their top concern followed by workforce shortages (49%) and “brain drain,” which Everlight defined as the “exodus of locally trained rads" (40%). 

“The findings of this survey paint a stark picture of the challenges facing radiology departments worldwide,” Everlight Global CEO Rob Anderson said in a statement shared Jan. 27. 

About 45% of the respondents were based in the U.K. and Ireland, and 16% came from Australia—all countries for which Everlight radiologists read images. The other 39% came from various countries including the U.S., India (4%), Pakistan and Dubai (2%). Some of the conclusions could be construed as self-serving, such as Everlight noting that 98% of respondents believe that outsourcing to teleradiologists benefits their healthcare system. Fewer than one-third of radiologists surveyed were employed by Everlight at the time of the study, while 70% worked elsewhere across public and private healthcare organizations. 

Fears about burnout were highest in the United States (67%), Pakistan (63%), Ireland (62%) and Australia (58%) and lowest in India and Dubai (both 36%). About 88% said they had worked nightshifts during their career, and 36% are still required to do so. Another 47% said overnights reduce diagnostic accuracy, while 63% believe these shifts negatively impact performance, and 61% said they felt impaired the following day. Most see artificial intelligence as a valuable tool to support radiologists, but 57% said they do not use the technology routinely. 

Over 380 respondents suggested ways to improve the profession, offering their insights through free-text responses. Here’s a breakdown of the most common answers: 

1. Increasing the radiology workforce and investing in training and professional development (105 mentions): “This aligns with earlier feedback about increasing demand on radiologists and associated risks of burnout and fatigue,” the report authors noted. “Amidst rising scan volumes and shortages of qualified radiologists, respondents felt that addressing workforce gaps and prioritizing continuous education were the most effective ways to alleviate pressure on existing staff and enhance the quality of patient care.” 

2. Reducing unnecessary imaging and improving referral-vetting processes (71 mentions): “Many radiologists see this as a critical step to improve efficiency and focus resources on high-priority cases,” the report authors wrote. “Linked to this is the need for stronger interdepartmental communication, with 47 mentions highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration. Respondents suggested that clearer communication channels between departments would reduce redundant imaging requests, streamline workflows and ultimately contribute to better patient outcomes.”

3. Integrating AI in a thoughtful and strategic way (70 mentions): “While many radiologists recognize the potential of AI, they emphasize that it must be implemented carefully to support radiologists rather than replace their expertise. Some respondents even suggested a reduced reliance on AI, with five mentions advocating for a cautious approach to its usage.” 

4. Elevating radiology’s profile as a profession (35): Respondents expressed “the need for radiology to have better visibility within the healthcare system. Increased awareness of radiologists’ contributions could foster stronger interdisciplinary support and advocacy for necessary resources.” 

5. Implementing flexible working arrangements (14) and measures to mitigate burnout (12): “These suggestions underscore a desire for a work environment that supports radiologists’ well-being and adapts to their needs, reflecting broader trends in healthcare for more supportive and sustainable workplaces.” 

“Together these responses provide a roadmap for potential enhancements in radiology to better serve healthcare systems,” the report noted. “While radiologists do not agree on everything, the research identifies a collective desire to expand the workforce, optimize imaging processes, reduce stress and overwork, and advocate for balanced AI integration in order to leaved improvements in healthcare delivery.” 

Launched in Australia in 2006, Everlight Radiology employs about 800 physicians delivering 2 million reports annually. It operates nine radiology reporting hubs, with offices across London, Sydney, and Auckland, New Zealand. Everlight operates using a 24/7 “follow the sun” model, allowing physicians to read studies from around the world during the daylight hours in their own time zones. London-based private equity firm Livingbridge invested in the radiology group in August 2021, fueling its growth since then.