Radiographers as readers in breast screening: experience with a ‘red dot’ method

Radiographers working in a breast screening programme were asked to indicate abnormalities which they felt were worth further assessment. A simple method of indicating abnormalities was modelled on similar systems used for trauma radiographs. The radiographersʹ ability to identify abnormalities was measured against radiologistsʹ recall. Follow-up for 3 years has allowed a measure of cancer detection rates. The radiographersʹ overall recall rate was not excessive at 7.5% but their sensitivity measured against radiologistsʹ recall was poor at 46%. In cancer detection their sensitivity was better but still low at 68%. The role of radiographers in mammographic reading is discussed and factors which may improve sensitivity are suggested.