Introduce national NHS policy requiring clinicians to provide written reasons when diagnostic scans are declined and create a clear pathway for second clinical review. Establish consistent guidance to ensure timely imaging where serious conditions cannot be confidently ruled out.

In some cases, earlier imaging could improve outcomes for patients and end their suffering sooner. I have been deeply moved by cases where symptoms were treated as minor, only for serious illness to be diagnosed later. Families deserve transparency, safeguards and timely investigation so preventable suffering is reduced.