Imaging referral guidelines in Europe: now and in the future-EC

As an integral part of the European Commission (EC) Imaging Referral Guidelines Project a 1.5-day workshop was held in Vienna on 20-21 September, 2012. At this workshop, models and good practices regarding the appropriateness and use of imaging referral guidelines (Guidelines) in Europe and worldwide were presented, together with the results of a survey of Guidelines in Europe. The latter included ideas, innovations and wishes for future Community action.MAIN MESSAGES: Recommendations for future Community action: Stronger measures should be taken by the EC and the European competent authorities for making Guidelines available and used in all EU member states. Evidence-based Guidelines with separate guidance for children should be issued or endorsed by a trusted European organisation. Educational initiatives and electronic requesting in connection with clinical decision support (CDS) systems should be used to improve the implementation of Guidelines. Monitoring of Guidelines implementation and use should be by clinical audit, particularly external audit, but also by local/internal audit.