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Version: 1.0.0 | Published: 24 Mar 2026 | Updated: 16 days ago

Diagnostic Imaging Dataset

Dataset

Summary

Description:
The Diagnostic Imaging Data Set (DID) collects data about diagnostic imaging tests carried out on NHS patients, extracted from local radiology information systems.
Access Tier:
Safeguarded
Health Theme:
Cancer
Health Category:
Electronic Health Records (EHRs)
Number of Unique Individuals:
18479800

Documentation

Documentation:
The DID is a monthly collection of information about diagnostic imaging tests carried out on NHS patients in England which enables analysis of demographic and geographic variation in access to different test types and providers. The dataset, collected at patient level, includes patient identifiers to enable linkage to other datasets, most notably cancer registration data. Information from the DID may inform the accreditation processes for imaging departments through the UK Imaging Services Accreditation Scheme and the assessment of imaging services by the Care Quality Commission. The dataset provides information on the utilisation of high value imaging equipment such as MRI scanners. Information about diagnostic testing is being linked to cancer patient’s records held in Cancer Registries, expanding the understanding we have of their treatment pathway. Further information can be found on the NHS Digital DID website. Release Date - Aggregated data at Trust level is published the last Thursday of the month by NHS England on the DID webpage iView - DID data is available to the DID user community and the DHSC via Community View in iView. This data resource has been designed for professionals working with health and social care data on a regular basis. Access to iView can be requested by contacting NHS Digital on 0300 303 5678 or enquiries@nhsdigital.nhs.uk

Coverage

Temporal

Start Date:
04 January 2012
Frequency:
MONTHLY
Date of First Release:
08 October 2024
Temporal Aggregation:
Other

Provenance

Origin

Collection Situation:
  • Other
  • Clinic
  • Secondary care - Accident and Emergency
  • Secondary care - In-patients
  • Community
  • Private
Image Contrast:
Not stated

Access and Governance

Usage

Data Use Requirements:
  • User specific restriction
  • Not-for-profit organisation use only
  • Institution specific restriction

Access

Jurisdiction:
England
Data Controller:
NHS England (NHSE)
Data Processor:
NHS England (NHSE)
Delivery Lead Time:
Other
Health Data Access Body:
NHS ENGLAND

Format and Standards

Language:
English
Format:
  • XML
  • CSV
  • Text
Coding System:
  • OTHER
  • SNOMED CT

Data Distribution

Data Status:
Not available
Distribution:
DID data are available via a range of services which can be applied for through the Data Access Request Service (DARS). Please note we will only pause the elapsed time when we require further detail or approvals from an external provider are required., https://digital.nhs.uk/services/data-access-request-service-dars/data-access-request-service-dars-charges

Observations

Name
Population Type
Value
Description
Variable Measured
Unit Code
Observation Date
Number of Records
Minimum Typical Age
Maximum Typical Age
Persons
18479800
Diagnostic imaging events relating to the 6 month period April - Sept 2020
Count
30 September 2020
18479800
0
120