RCR response to the DHSC’s announcement of funding for EDITH, an AI radiology trial

Dr Katharine Halliday, President of the Royal College of Radiologists said:

“AI has immense potential and will play a vital role in managing growing demand across diagnostics, cancer care, and the NHS as a whole. At our Global AI Conference this week, we’ve seen many examples of how AI could support the NHS, freeing up doctors' time to focus on patient care. However, while AI holds great promise, it also carries major risks. As AI adoption in the NHS progresses, expert clinical oversight will be essential—alongside efforts to ensure AI is both trusted by and acceptable to patients.

“It’s fantastic to see the government investing in radiology-led AI research, such as the EDITH trial, which will investigate how AI could be integrated into the breast screening programme safely and effectively. 

“Given the volume and complexity of breast screening, if AI is found to be safe and effective it could make a major impact on radiology. However, this is a rigorous study that will take time to yield results. With a projected 40% shortfall in consultant radiologists by 2028, the need to build radiology capacity remains urgent.”