Radiology in Finland

Summary

Examinations using X-rays as well as interventional procedures excluding coronary vessel dilatations (PTCA) are still almost completely in the hands of radiologists. Although radiology is considered to be expensive, the equipment in Finland has been renewed and updated well. Digital techniques, including teleradiology, have been applied to a great extent. The new quality manual and continuous developing education aim to strongly increase the quality of radiological services and thus keep radiology in the hands of the radiologist. Despite a slight lack of radiologists, the increasing workload is being coped with by better organization and the use of modern techniques. An abundance of radiological procedures are conducted in Finland, which has been taken into account in the radiation protection law and well-organized inspections. Scientific research has improved in recent years due to active efforts to raise its quality.

The future lines to follow in radiology in Finland are to maintain high quality, to develop education and scientific work, and to improve daily routines. New technology (teleradiology) is used to intensify radiological practice, to exclude unnecessary examinations, and to reduce radiation doses.