As we move into the final quarter of 2025, several new proposals and policy developments are on the horizon that could shape the way radiologists work — both in Australia and those planning to migrate here. From draft safety standards to upcoming reporting requirements, this is a good moment to review your readiness.
1. Proposed Mandatory My Health Record Uploads
The Australian Government has indicated plans to make uploading diagnostic imaging reports to My Health Record a mandatory requirement for providers.
Under the proposal, Medicare rebates could be withheld for services not uploaded within set timeframes. While still under consultation, the intent is clear — imaging results should be seamlessly available to all members of a patient’s care team.
What this means for radiologists:
- Ensure your reporting systems are technically ready for secure, compliant uploads.
- Discuss with your practice manager or IT lead about integrating upload automation.
- Anticipate a learning curve for both workflow adjustments and patient communication.
2. Draft National Safety and Quality Medical Imaging (NSQMI) Standards
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has released draft NSQMI Standards for consultation.
These cover governance, clinical safety, radiation protection, consumer engagement, and technical standards.
Key considerations:
- The standards will form the benchmark for accreditation and compliance once finalised.
- Practices should review their current protocols for alignment — especially in radiation safety, incident reporting, and informed consent processes.
- Early familiarisation will make transition smoother when the standards are implemented.
3. New Occupation Shortage List (OSL) and Regional Incentives
For overseas-trained radiologists, the Occupation Shortage List (OSL) has replaced the older MLTSSL/STSOL framework. This shift includes:
- Quarterly updates to reflect current workforce needs.
- Regional bonus points (up to 15) for skilled migration applicants willing to work outside metropolitan areas.
This could open opportunities for faster migration outcomes and career progression for those prepared to take on regional roles.
4. CPD Readiness as Q3 Ends
With the third quarter closing at the end of September, now is the time to:
- Log and categorise your completed CPD hours.
- Check you’ve met requirements across all relevant domains.
- Update your Professional Development Plan (PDP) to reflect recent role changes or new responsibilities.
- Ensure any documentation is upload-ready for AHPRA.
Proactive review now reduces the risk of a year-end scramble and helps you identify any learning gaps before December.
5. Clinical Relevance – Awareness Month Focus
September is a major month for cancer awareness, with campaigns for:
- Prostate Cancer
- Gynaecological Cancers
- Childhood Cancers
Each of these areas relies heavily on radiology for early detection, accurate staging, and treatment monitoring. Awareness month activities can be a useful prompt to:
- Review imaging protocols for these patient groups.
- Engage in multidisciplinary discussions about referral pathways and reporting clarity.
- Share evidence-based insights with peers and referrers.
Looking Ahead
While none of these reforms are fully implemented yet, they point toward a healthcare environment that is:
- More connected through shared patient data.
- More accountable through national safety benchmarks.
- More flexible for skilled migrants, especially in regional practice.
The remainder of 2025 is an opportunity to prepare — both in terms of compliance and career planning.
📘 Stay informed, stay ready — and position yourself to adapt confidently as the next wave of changes arrives.
References
- Australian Digital Health Agency. My Health Record – Legislative Framework and Uploading Requirements. 2025. Available at: https://www.digitalhealth.gov.au
- Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. Draft National Safety and Quality Medical Imaging Standards. 2025. Available at: https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au
- Department of Home Affairs. Occupation Shortage List – Skilled Migration Program. 2025. Available at: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
- Medical Board of Australia. CPD Registration Standard. 2025. Available at: https://www.medicalboard.gov.au
- Cancer Australia. National Cancer Awareness Initiatives – 2025 Calendar. Available at: https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au
