Diagnostic Imaging is a core module within the PSS accreditation pathway, designed to ensure veterinary practices use imaging safely, effectively and in compliance with UK legislation. Whether a practice has basic radiography access or advanced diagnostic equipment, Module 5 sets out the standards, protocols and behaviours that demonstrate high-quality clinical care.

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What This Module Covers

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This module assesses how your practice manages and delivers diagnostic imaging, including:

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• Radiography (X-ray)

• Ultrasound

• Endoscopy

• Contrast studies

• Advanced Imaging (CT, MRI)

• ECG

• Image quality, storage & audit

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It applies across three accreditation levels:

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• Core Standards

• General Practice

• Veterinary Hospital

• Award Points (for advanced capability)

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Core Standards Requirements

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Practices with an X-ray machine must meet all requirements from 5.1.2–5.1.17. Practices without one must meet 5.1.1 only.

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Core includes:

• Registration with the HSE for ionising radiation 

• Safe radiographic processing and PPE management 

• Mechanical & chemical restraint options 

• Appointing an RPA and RPS with appropriate training 

• Risk assessments, local rules & controlled area signage 

• Personal dose monitoring & X-ray exposure records

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General Practice Requirements

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To achieve GP accreditation, practices must have:

• On-site X-ray facilities suitable for species treated 

• Diagnostic-quality ultrasound capability (POCUS minimum) 

• An RPA visit at least every 4 years 

• Correct identification and retention of diagnostic images

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Veterinary Hospital Requirements

 

Hospitals must demonstrate enhanced capability, including:

• Digital systems that minimise exposure while maintaining detail 

• Measuring callipers, full contrast study capability & stored ECGs 

• Endoscopes for GI and airway investigations with recording functions 

• Tonometry, intraocular pressure measurement & ultrasound recording​​

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Award Points - Demonstrating Excellence 

Up to 490 points available, with thresholds:

• Outstanding: 390

• Good: 290

 

Awards cover areas such as:

• CPD in diagnostic imaging (10–30 pts)

• Access to CT/MRI (20–40 pts)

• Endoscopy, thoracic & abdominal ultrasound, echocardiography

• Contrast studies, tonometry & ECG interpretation

• Image quality audit & searchable image database