Decision support tool to help Greater Manchester GPs order CT and MRI scans
GPs across Greater Manchester are gaining access to order more imaging tests for patients directly. Known as GP Direct Access, the initiative allows GPs to order CT scans of the chest, stomach and hip areas and MRI scans of the brain, in addition to the x-rays and ultrasounds they can already order. This will help cut wait times for patients and reduce the need for a specialist consultation first.
Led by the Greater Manchester Imaging Network, the initiative is being delivered in partnership with xWave Technologies, which is supplying the xWave CDS (clinical decision support) tool to Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust and Wigan, Wrightington and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust. The CDS provides guidance to GPs in ordering the most appropriate scan for patients and integrates with The Royal College of Radiologists’ iRefer guidelines. Additionally, the software will save administration time for those staff currently manually processing orders via email or paper systems.
Greater Manchester Imaging Network associate director Catherine Walsh said: “We are delighted to be introducing this innovative technology across three of our NHS trusts. These tools will not only improve outcomes for patients by ensuring they get the right scan at the right time, but they will also support our hardworking GPs and radiology teams by streamlining workflows and optimising use of limited resources.”
xWave Technologies CEO Mitchell O’Gorman added: “At a time when radiology waiting lists are growing and workforce shortages are intensifying, tools like ours can help trusts deliver faster, smarter and more equitable access to diagnostic imaging.
“The rollout of xWave’s platform comes as NHS England is making additional funding available for trusts that have not yet adopted clinical decision support solutions. This funding is intended to support broader adoption of CDS technologies, such as xWave CDS, to reduce unnecessary imaging, alleviate pressure on radiology services and ensure patients receive timely and accurate diagnoses.”
Lead picture: xWave Technologies CEO Mitchell O’Gorman and Greater Manchester Imaging Network associate director Catherine Walsh.
Read this report on page 11 of the August 2025 issue of RAD Magazine.
