Radiology accreditation sought

The Southern District Health Board has applied for its radiology department to regain accreditation.

In March, International Accreditation New Zealand - a Crown entity which audits laboratories and inspection bodies and certifies their competence - withheld accreditation from the SDHB's radiology service.

It cited concerns over asbestos, staffing levels, waiting lists and IT systems.

Loss of accreditation meant the SDHB was unable to claim funding for ACC work worth about $300,000 annually, although the department was still able to operate.

The SDHB has subsequently carried out building work in the department, and also discussed ways of supporting its IT needs.

Extra shifts were put on for CT and MRI scans to address waiting lists.

The SDHB has been seeking staff for the department.

An SDHB spokeswoman said the board wrote to IANZ on Monday, to formally request a review of its radiology department accreditation.

IANZ has previously said the SDHB was welcome to reapply for reaccreditation when it was ready to do so.

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