Changing the model of radiography practice: Challenges of role advancement and future needs for radiographers working in the UAE

IntroductionThe radiographers' role in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is focused on image acquisition with a willingness to accept advanced practice roles after appropriate education and training. Radiographers working in the UAE are highly motivated and ambitious to achieve those internationally identified levels of professional recognition and opportunities for role advancement. This study investigates the radiographers’ perspectives, perceptions and hopes for role advancement in the UAE.MethodsA qualitative research study design using Focus Group Discussions (FGD) was used to elicit the perceptions of radiographers. Participants were radiographers working in the hospitals and clinics supervised by the Ministry of Health and Prevention. Participants were asked about the recognized tasks defined as advancement roles, needs for roles clinically, challenges and requirements to prepare radiographers to participate in extended/developed roles. The discussions were audio recorded and later transcribed by an independent research assistant. Thematic analysis was used for data analysisResults29 radiographers participated in the FGDs, and 83% (n = 24) were interested in role advancement. FGD revealed that their current practice showed some informal extended role that may promote career progression. The most significant challenges identified by participants was their knowledge level as provided by the current curriculum and the need for education and licensing body support to accommodate change.ConclusionThe study identified a need for education and licensing body support to enable change in roles by radiographers, through improving radiographer knowledge and experience for role advancement.Implications for practiceTo sustain role advancement, formal intense training and education are necessary, normally above bachelor's degree level. Furthermore, establishing standards, licensing organizations/professional bodies should be part of the transformation of the profession to enable internationally recognized models to be followed.     

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on radiographers in the Republic of Cyprus. A questionnaire survey

IntroductionImaging is essential for the initial diagnosis and monitoring of the novel coronavirus, which emerged in Wuhan, China. This study aims to assess the insight of radiographers on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected their work routine and if protective measures are applied.MethodA prospective observational study was conducted among radiographers registered in the Cyprus Society of Registered Radiologic Technologists & Radiation Therapy Technologists. A questionnaire composed of 28 multiple choice questions was utilised, and the data analysis was performed using SPSS software with the statistical significance assumed as p-value < 0.05.ResultsOut of 350 registered radiographers, 101 responses were received. The results showed that there are statistically significant differences regarding the working hours, the feeling of stress, the work effectiveness, the average examination time, the presence of a protocol used among the different workplaces of the participants; a private radiology centre, a private hospital or a public hospital, with a p-value 0.0022, 0.015, 0.027, 0.001, 0.0001 respectively. Also, statistically significant differences were observed in the decontamination methods used for equipment (p-value 0.007), for air (p-value 0.04) and when decontamination takes place (p-value 0.00032) among the different workplaces of the participants. Nonetheless, the majority of radiographers believe that their workplace is sufficiently provided with PPE, cleaning supplies, equipment, and with cleaning personnel and are optimistic regarding the adequacy of these provisions in the next three months.ConclusionThis study showed that in the Republic of Cyprus, there are protocols regarding protective measures against COVID-19, and the radiographers are adequately trained on how to face an infectious disease outbreak. However, work is needed in order to develop protocols that reassure the safety of patients and medical personnel while managing the excess workload effectively.Implications for practiceThis study indicates the importance of applying protective measures and protocols in the radiology departments in order to minimise the spread of the virus.     

Concordance between a neuroradiologist,a consultant radiologist and trained reporting radiographers interpreting MRI head examinations: An empirical study

IntroductionThis study assessed agreement between MRI reporting radiographers and a consultant radiologist compared with an index neuroradiologist when reporting MRI head (brain/internal auditory meati [IAMs]) examinations. The effect on patient management of any discordant reports was also examined.MethodsTwo trained MRI reporting radiographers (RRs), a consultant radiologist (CR) and an index neuroradiologist (INR) reported on a random sample of 210 MRI examinations. The radiographers reported during clinical practice and the radiologists in clinical practice conditions. Two independent consultant physicians (neuro-rehabilitation and neuropsychiatry) compared these reports with the index neuroradiologist report for agreement and the clinical importance of discrepant reports.ResultsOverall observer agreement between the RRs and CR was comparable in relation to agreement with the INR: RR; 93/210 (44.3%); and the CR; 83/210 (39.4%) for all head MRI examinations (p = 0.32). For brain examinations the difference was similar: RR; 64/180 (35.6%); and CR; 54/190 (30.0%), p = 0.26. Agreement rates for the IAMs examinations were identical, 29/30 (97.7%).For all head MRI examinations (n = 210) there was a very small observed difference of <0.5% in mean agreement between the reporting radiographers and the consultant radiologist (p = 0.92) for examinations where a major disagreement would have been likely to have led to a change in patient management.ConclusionMRI reporting radiographers reported during clinical practice on MRI head examinations to a level of agreement comparable with a consultant radiologist.Implications for practiceThis is an area in which radiographers could provide additional reporting roles to the reporting service to increase capacity. Wider potential benefits include cost-effectiveness and role development/retention of radiographers.     

Changing the model of radiography practice in the UAE: A snapshot of a profession in transition

IntroductionThis study forms part of a needs assessment in relation to the challenges United Arab Emirates (UAE) radiographers face as they move beyond the role of a technician, and their learning needs to facilitate role advancement. It presents a snapshot of the workforce in terms of qualifications, clinical experience, and responsibilities, as it transitions towards an Emirati, led profession. The results will aid the radiography workforce to embrace a broader role within medical imaging and radiographic practice in the UAE.MethodsAn electronically distributed cross-sectional study was conducted among radiographers in the UAE. The questionnaire captured radiographer demographics, qualifications, professional experience, postgraduate training, professional development plans, and their interest in future role developments.Results272 radiographers were invited to participate with a response rate of 68% (n = 185). Thirty-four (18%) radiographers were UAE nationals with the remainder educated overseas. BSc qualifications were held by 153 (82.7%) and had 6–20 years of experience. There were 12 masters’ qualified and two with doctoral qualifications. Modality vendors were significant providers of professional development. Improved job satisfaction and the development of an Emirati led radiography profession were identified as the main gains for role advancement by 171 (92.4%) respondents.ConclusionCurrently, UAE radiographers work within traditional professional boundaries focussing on image acquisition under direct radiologist supervision. At the same time, many respondents revealed they had embraced advanced practice roles after appropriate education and training.Implications for practiceThe findings suggest an Emirati led profession requires the creation of a distinct professional body to represent the interests of radiographers, more investment in postgraduate education, and the creation of a career structure that encompasses positive role development.     

An analysis of the continuing professional development needs of radiographers and radiation therapists in Singapore

IntroductionContinuing Professional development (CPD) is deemed essential for the Radiographers (DR) and Radiation Therapists (RT) after Singapore commenced state registration. Diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy treatment services are constantly revolutionizing and those working in this field requires sufficient knowledge of the uptrends for training and development. The purpose of this survey is to identify the current training needs of the registered DR and RT in Singapore, and to understand their views about CPD activities.MethodsAn online questionnaire was disseminated by the Singapore Society of Radiographers (SSR) to all registered DR and RT in Singapore, and all practicing in restructured and private hospitals were included. Data collection took place from January 2018 to April 2018.Results102 responses were analysed, where 89 were DR and 13 were RT. CPD was provided in 72.5% (n = 74) of the participants’ institutions, and 69.6% (n = 71) of participants were aware of CPD. Interestingly, participants were significantly more likely to be unaware of CPD when working in an institution which do not offer CPD. Training programme objective was the most important factor for selecting a programme. 93.1% (n = 95) preferred SSR to support them for CPD. There were a few constraints to CPD engagements identified such as financial factors, lack of time, and institution availability.ConclusionThere was significant intrinsic motivation in a quality CPD activity. CPD activities should be current, accessible and relevant for the healthcare professionals to increase participation, which directly contributes to high standards of clinical care.Implications for practiceLocal healthcare institutions should be aware and address needs, gaps and aspirations of the local DR and RT community to ensure adequate preparation has been made upon initiation of mandatory CPD.     

Accuracy of appendicular radiographic image interpretation by radiographers and junior doctors in Ghana: Can this be improved by training?

IntroductionAccess to image interpretation in Ghana remains a challenge with the limited number of radiologists. Radiographers with the right skills and knowledge in image interpretation could help address this challenge. The aims of the study were to determine and compare the ability (accuracy, sensitivity and specificity) of radiographers and junior doctors in interpreting appendicular trauma radiographs both before and after training.MethodsAn action research study involving a pre and post training test was carried out to determine the level of accuracy, sensitivity and specificity in abnormality detection by radiographers after undergoing training when compared to junior doctors. Eight radiographers and twelve junior doctors were invited to interpret an image bank of 30 skeletal radiographs, both before and upon completion of an educational program. The participants’ tests were scored against a reference standard provided by an experienced radiologist. Pre and post-test analysis were carried out for comparison.ResultsPost training mean accuracy (radiographers 83.3% vs 68.8%, p = 0.017; doctors 81.9% vs 71.6%, p = 0.003), sensitivity (radiographers 83.3% vs 69.2%, p = 0.042; doctors 77.2% vs 67.8% p = 0.025) and specificity (radiographers 83.3% vs 68.3%, p = 0.011; doctors 86.7% vs 75.6% p = 0.005) of both groups significantly improved. No significant differences were recorded between the radiographers and doctors after the training event.ConclusionThe study revealed that, with a well-structured training program, radiographers and junior doctors could improve on their accuracies in radiographic abnormality detection and commenting on trauma radiographs.     

The diagnostic accuracy of radiographers assessing screening mammograms: A systematic review

This systematic review aims to evaluate the literature on the performance of radiographers in assessment of screening mammograms compared with radiologists. Measurable performance criteria were essential as well as a gold standard with which to compare both performance, and outcomes by means of biopsy reports or consequent negative screenings. The level of training of the radiographers in mammogram assessment was also documented. The majority of the literature demonstrated that the performance statistics of radiographers are equivalent to that of radiologist readers. Although formal training of radiographers demonstrates improved sensitivity, results of all performance data suggest no statistical difference at the 95% level between trained or untrained radiographers and radiologists.     

常州市放射工作人员晶状体浑浊情况调查

目的 调查常州市放射工作人员晶状体浑浊情况.方法 采用裂隙灯显微镜检查法,对常州市1829名(3658眼)放射工作人员晶状体的变化进行检查.结果 3658眼中发现晶状体浑浊256眼(7.00％),随着工龄延长,晶状体浑浊率逐渐增高,其中医用X线人员晶状体浑浊率明显高于工业探伤组.结论 长期低剂量职业照射可造成晶状体浑浊,应加强个人防护和放射防护监督管理.