New research highlights critical challenges facing radiology

In one of the largest global surveys of radiologists from across 50 countries, new research from Everlight Radiology highlights critical challenges facing the field of radiology. Radiology Unlocked: The Global Radiologist Report 2025, reveals radiologists’ first hand insights on the critical pressures facing the field of radiology, including the incidence of burnout and stress, the dangers of overnight working, the potential (and pitfalls) of AI, and the opportunities presented by outsourcing, as well as exploring potential solutions.

Image Credit: Everlight Radiology

Over 700 Radiologists shared their insights on the critical challenges and opportunities facing their profession, providing a comprehensive look at the current state of radiology and how perspectives vary by location, sector, and experience. One of the most pressing issues revealed by the survey is radiologist burnout and workforce shortages within the field. Over half (53%) of respondents identify burnout as their top concern. This is closely followed by workforce shortages (49%) and brain drain - the exodus of locally trained clinicians (40%). These challenges are putting immense pressure on radiologists, leading to increased patient wait times and a growing demand for innovative solutions.

The survey also highlights the significant challenges posed by working the night shift. Majority of radiologists (88%) say that they have worked night shifts at some point in their careers, with over a third (36%) still regularly required to do so. There is a strong consensus that frequent night shifts are unsustainable, with nearly half (47%) stating that night shifts reduce diagnostic accuracy. An additional 63% of radiologists perceive overnight work as having a negative impact on their performance and patient care, with 61% of radiologists reporting impaired performance the following day.

Due to increased patient wait times and overworked staff, teleradiology has emerged as a critical support system in modern healthcare as it helps alleviate workload pressures, clear backlogs, and provides access to subspecialist expertise. Teleradiology refers to the transmission of radiological images like X-Rays, MRIs and CT scans to a secondary location, away from the hospital or clinic where the images were taken. Images are sent via a secure digital system to be reviewed and reported by a specialized doctor. These specialists, called consultant radiologists, can report on images from another country and even from another time zone. 

An overwhelming 98% of radiologists recognize the benefits of teleradiology, with nearly three-quarters citing its ability to help in-house teams’ clear backlogs (73%) and reduce workload pressures (72%) as its most valued strengths.

Interest in artificial intelligence (AI) has surged within radiology, with many viewing it as a potential solution to the field’s many challenges, from relieving workload pressures to improving diagnostic accuracy, however, its adoption varies widely among radiologists. Many are not yet regularly using AI, with 57% of respondents stating they do not use it routinely in their roles. The majority see AI as a valuable tool to support, not replace, human expertise. The report emphasizes the need for responsible implementation and continuous testing to maximize AI's benefits.

In light of the results of the research, there is a clear need to invest in capacity and development with the aim to attract and retain talent, prioritize work-life balance to mitigate the effects of burnout, minimize overnight working to reduce the negative impact on both patient care and doctor wellbeing and the promotion of sensible AI adoption to better support radiologists. These steps are essential to creating a more resilient and effective radiology workforce.

The findings of this survey paint a stark picture of the challenges facing radiology departments worldwide. It’s clear that a combination of strategies is required to address the increasing demand for imaging services. Teleradiology and outsourcing are key components of that solution, offering vital support to overworked departments. We recognize the urgent need to listen to radiologists and provide better support for radiologists, as this will in turn enhance patient care. By addressing burnout, embracing true partnership with teleradiology companies, responsibly integrating artificial intelligence, and investing in the future of the profession, we are committed to supporting the radiology community. Together, we can ensure the sustainability and advancement of radiology for years to come."

Rob Anderson, Everlight’s Global CEO

Radiology plays a key and often unseen part of the majority of patient care pathways. Medical imaging will be a part of more than 80% of patient episodes, with vital input into areas like cancer care as well as almost all emergency care; and as the population ages, the global demand for diagnostic imaging continues to grow at a rate that outpaces radiology workforce growth. Public awareness of the role of radiologists (doctors responsible for the reporting of patient scans such as X Rays, MRI and CT scans) in healthcare management has been low historically, but it’s important that the public understand how critical radiologists are to optimizing patient care.

Everlight Radiology’s global model of teleradiology includes a global talent pool of highly skilled radiologists delivers time critical reporting that is truly 24/7 365 and with unrivalled 99.5% accuracy, with over 800 fully credentialled Consultant Radiologists deployed across the globe.